Why Has Israel Attacked Iran? | BBC News
In a dramatic escalation of tensions in the Middle East, Israel launched strikes across Iran on Friday, asserting that the operations were aimed at the "heart" of Iran’s nuclear program. The attacks led to significant casualties, including the reported death of Hossein Salami, commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), alongside other senior military officials and nuclear scientists. This operation has heightened concerns and further complicated an already volatile geopolitical landscape.
According to Iranian state media, the strikes did not spare civilians; tragic reports indicated that children were among the deceased. However, it is important to note that the BBC has not been able to independently confirm these claims, raising questions about the reliability of information emerging from the region amid ongoing hostilities.
The Israeli military justified the assault by claiming that Iran had launched approximately 100 drones toward Israeli territories early on the same day. Israeli officials asserted that all incoming drones were intercepted, but the incident prompted a swift declaration of a state of emergency within Israel, underscoring the nation’s acute security concerns.
In this context of military unrest, the BBC’s Security Correspondent Frank Gardner analyzes the motivations behind Israel’s decision to engage in such confrontational actions against Iran and speculates on the potential repercussions for both nations and the broader region moving forward. As tensions escalate, the international community watches closely, anticipating the next developments in this high-stakes conflict that could have far-reaching implications.
Conclusion
The recent attacks by Israel on Iranian soil mark a significant moment in Middle Eastern diplomacy and security. As both nations brace for potential retaliation, the unfolding situation calls for urgent attention and informed analysis to navigate the complex web of alliances and enmities that define this crucial region.
Watch the video by BBC News
Video “Why has Israel attacked Iran? | BBC News” was uploaded on 06/13/2025 to Youtube Channel BBC News