Israel's goal is Iran's nuclear program, expert says
Illustrative photo: Israeli planes strike Iran (x.com/IAFsite)
Israel, during its operation Rising Lion, has targeted Iran's nuclear program. The second phase of the operation is currently underway, stated Israeli diplomat and former ambassador to Russia, Arkady Mil-Man, in a comment to RBC-Ukraine's YouTube channel.
First phase of the operation
"The main strike is aimed at Iran's nuclear program. The point was that on June 13, the operation began with the goal of destroying all remaining air defense systems to allow Israeli aircraft to freely operate in Iranian airspace," Mil-Man said.
According to him, this was the first phase of the operation, and it went "very well." While it wasn't possible to destroy all air defense systems, Israeli aircraft were given a path into Iranian airspace.
Later, other air defense systems were localized, and they continue to be destroyed.
The expert also noted that, along with the first phase, there were strikes by the Mossad team, targeting Iran's military leadership - around 20 high-ranking officials. In addition, strikes were carried out on nuclear physicists involved in Iran's nuclear program. So far, nine scientists have been eliminated.
Mil-Man pointed out that these scientists possessed knowledge that was bringing Iran closer to developing a nuclear bomb.
Second phase
The diplomat explained that the second phase of Israel's operation began on June 14, when bombers started striking Iran's nuclear facilities.
"This includes Natanz, Isfahan, Tabriz, and so on - there are many facilities," he added.
He separately noted that Natanz is one of the largest sites, where a lot is hidden underground. Therefore, the operation to destroy it is very complicated.
Israel has also started bombing the facility in Fordow, which is located inside a massive mountain. That target is also difficult to destroy.
"You shouldn't underestimate the Iranians - they are smart, cunning, and know what they are doing. This is a strong and complex enemy," he added.
Israel is also systematically destroying various military targets in Tehran. These include facilities connected to the Ministry of Defense, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), and police forces.
"This is a systematic destruction of the infrastructure of a terrorist state - one that helped Russia fight in Ukraine and attempted to wipe out Israel. What we are seeing is a deliberate operation to eliminate this military potential, which is aimed against Israel, the free world, and the United States," Mil-Man emphasized.
Israel's operation
On the night of June 13, Israel launched an attack on Iran. About 100 targets were attacked.
In response, Iran launched a large number of ballistic missiles at Israel on the night of June 14. As a result, many civilians were injured. There were also fatalities.
