A former senior Mossad officer has revealed the crucial role of technology and innovation in Israel’s engagement with Iran over a 12-day conflict. Speaking with BBC Persian’s special correspondent, the former Mossad deputy, Rami Igra, highlighted the influence of cutting-edge technology and sophisticated guidance systems in targeting top commanders of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Israel’s initial strike on June 13 eliminated high-ranking Iranian military officials, including the Armed Forces Chief of Staff, the IRGC Chief of Staff, and key figures in the IRGC’s missile and aerospace branches, along with several nuclear experts. Iran claims Mossad operatives within the country were responsible.
Igra remarked on the limited impact of these actions, noting that they do not undermine the larger force behind the commanders: “There’s an entire army, and personnel can be replaced.” Following US strikes in Iran, correspondent Joe Inwood examines three critical issues. Emergency responders cleared debris in Tel Aviv after an Iranian missile attack. Reporter Lucy Williamson is at Soroka Hospital in Beersheba, observing the response efforts. Israel’s Prime Minister has persistently cautioned of Iran’s near-nuclear capabilities.
Ros Atkins from BBC Verify sheds light on the Iranian nuclear program, noting that the Fordo site is heavily fortified, with only one known conventional weapon, allegedly possessed by the US, capable of destroying it. Social media footage depicts fuel shortages and traffic chaos as Tehran residents attempt to flee. Correspondent Hugo Bachega reports from Petah Tikva, where an overnight Iranian missile hit a building, causing five fatalities and numerous injuries, as confirmed by Israel’s emergency services. Video from Reuters and The Associated Press shows burning vehicles after a Haifa strike.
Hugo Bachega reports from Bat Yam near Tel Aviv, also targeted by Iran. The exchange of hostilities between Israel and Iran persisted throughout the night. Israeli emergency teams in Bat Yam conducted rescue operations following the Iranian offensive. Israeli officials have suggested this might mark the onset of an extended campaign against Iran.
Hugo Bachega provides updates from Jerusalem as hostilities continue. Iran’s latest missile barrage on Friday night pledged “significant retaliation.” Israel’s retaliatory strikes, initiated Thursday night, persist as of today. Verify specialist Merlyn Thomas reviews footage of the strikes and effects. The Israeli Prime Minister voiced that Iran’s nuclear aims constitute a “serious and imminent threat,” while Iran’s President vowed a “forceful” reaction.
Reporting from Jerusalem, Hugo Bachega covers Israel’s night-time military actions across Iran. Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu announced the launch of Operation Rising Lion in a video message. Israel claimed responsibility for strikes on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, causing explosions and fires in Tehran and other cities.
