Israel launched a large-scale attack on Iranian nuclear facilities and military infrastructure early Friday, with explosions reported across Tehran. The Israeli military operation, dubbed “Operation Rising Lion,” targeted dozens of sites, including locations associated with Iran’s nuclear program and key military commanders and bases.

According to the Israeli military, over 200 aircraft dropped more than 330 munitions on around 100 targets during the opening strikes. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz declared a nationwide state of emergency, warning of imminent missile and drone retaliation. “In the wake of the state of Israel’s preventive attack against Iran, missile and drone attacks against Israel and its civilian population are expected immediately,” Katz said.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the attacks will continue “for as many days as it takes to remove this threat.” “We are defending the free world from the terrorism and barbarism that Iran fosters and exports across the globe,” Netanyahu said in a televised interview. He added that Iran already possesses enough enriched uranium for nine nuclear bombs.

The attack comes after the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) censured Iran for not working with its inspectors, marking the first time in 20 years the agency has taken such action. In response, Iran announced it would establish a third uranium enrichment site and install advanced centrifuges.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that Israel took “unilateral action against Iran” and informed the US that it believed the strikes were necessary for its self-defense. “We are not involved in strikes against Iran and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region,” Rubio said, warning Iran not to target US interests or personnel.

The strikes have caused a significant spike in global oil prices, with benchmark Brent crude rising nearly 5% on the news. Both Iran and Israel have closed their airspace amid the escalating tensions.