Overview
- Israel launched Operation Rising Lion on June 12, striking the Natanz nuclear site and cutting power to its underground centrifuges.
- US intelligence reports that while Natanz suffered severe damage, the Fordow enrichment site remained intact, limiting the setback to a few months.
- Iran has fired retaliatory missiles, triggering a cycle of cross-border attacks that threaten broader regional stability.
- Experts warn the strikes could accelerate a nuclear arms race, with Saudi Arabia and North Korea cited as potential proliferators.
- France and Germany have called for immediate talks; Israel is preparing further multi-phase strikes backed by possible US use of bunker-busting munitions.