Jerusalem: In what is being described as one of the most daring military missions in Israel’s modern history, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have officially declared the conclusion of Operation Rising Lion, a high-stakes strike launched against key Iranian military and nuclear sites. IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir confirmed the 12-day campaign’s success, calling it an operation that will “be remembered in history.”
“We struck deep inside Iran, neutralized their nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities, and eliminated the architects behind plans to harm Israel,” said Zamir in a statement posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
A Coordinated Multi-Front Mission
According to Zamir, the IDF operated on six different fronts while even penetrating Tehran’s airspace. He stated that Operation Rising Lion was initiated in response to what Israel considered an existential threat from Iran. Throughout the operation, Israel coordinated closely with the United States military, which simultaneously launched its own assault codenamed Operation Midnight Hammer. Zamir praised the American mission as “accurate and powerful,” highlighting shared objectives between the allies.
Iran’s Retaliation and Escalation
Iran responded to the Israeli strikes by launching Operation True Promise 3, a wave of drone and missile attacks targeting Israeli infrastructure. The conflict escalated further when Iran targeted U.S. military bases in Iraq and Qatar, prompting deeper American involvement.
Ceasefire Declared
The intense military confrontation culminated in a 12-hour ceasefire agreement, brokered after a wave of retaliatory attacks on both sides. Former U.S. President Donald Trump announced the truce via Truth Social, calling it a victory for diplomacy and “a potential turning point in Middle Eastern peace.”
“This war had the potential to escalate into years of regional destruction, but it didn’t—and it won’t,” Trump wrote. He hailed the conclusion of the ‘12-Day War’ and praised both Iran and Israel for choosing peace over prolonged conflict.
Focus on Hostages and Hamas
While the spotlight was on Israel-Iran tensions, Zamir reminded the world of the continuing crisis in Gaza. Fifty Israeli hostages remain in Hamas captivity, and he reiterated Israel’s commitment to their safe return. “Our mission to dismantle Hamas and bring our people home is far from over,” he added.
Global Implications
Operation Rising Lion not only disrupted Iran’s nuclear progress but also realigned geopolitical priorities in the region. Defense analysts believe the operation may have delayed Iran’s military ambitions by years, while also reinforcing the Israel-U.S. strategic partnership.
Zamir concluded his statement with a message of resilience:
“This mission stands as a milestone in the defense of the Israeli people, our sovereignty, and our future. We will continue to act decisively against any threat to our nation.”
Background:
The operation marks one of the most high-profile military engagements between Israel and Iran in recent times. It rekindles global debates over nuclear deterrence, preemptive defense, and the fragile balance in West Asia. As the ceasefire holds, global leaders urge all parties to maintain calm and prioritize diplomatic channels.
