Covert BASE Inside Iran – Too Far This Time?

Israel strikes Iranian missile sites and nuclear facilities in a daring preemptive operation that has shifted the balance of power in the Middle East.

At a Glance

  • Israel launched “Operation Rising Lion” against Iran, targeting ballistic missiles aimed at Israeli territory
  • The Mossad established a drone base inside Iran prior to the strikes, enabling precision attacks on missile launchers
  • Key Iranian military leaders, including the IRGC Air Force commander, were eliminated during the operation
  • Israel targeted Iran’s largest uranium enrichment site to prevent nuclear weapons development
  • The operation occurred on June 13, 2025, with Israel releasing footage of successful strikes

Precision Strikes Against Imminent Threats

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has released video footage showing its air force conducting precision strikes against Iranian ballistic missiles that were positioned to target Israeli territories. The operation, codenamed “Rising Lion,” was executed on June 13, 2025, after intelligence confirmed these missiles posed an immediate threat to Israeli civilians. The military action specifically targeted surface-to-surface missile launchers that Iran had prepared for potential use against Israel, demonstrating Israel’s resolve to defend its borders against regional threats.

Israeli intelligence agencies had been monitoring the Iranian missile program closely, gathering crucial information about launch sites and capabilities. According to military sources, the Iranian missiles were positioned in a manner that indicated preparation for imminent launch, which accelerated the timeline for Israel’s response. The IDF’s statement emphasized that the operation was conducted in accordance with international law provisions allowing for self-defense against credible threats.

Mossad’s Covert Operations

Prior to the main assault, Israel’s intelligence agency, Mossad, conducted a series of covert operations inside Iranian territory. Reports indicate that Mossad successfully established a drone base within Iran, providing a strategic advantage for launching precision strikes. This unprecedented infiltration allowed Israel to deploy specially designed drones equipped with advanced targeting systems, capable of evading Iranian air defenses and delivering precision-guided weapons to designated targets.

Mossad operatives also strategically placed precision-guided weapons near critical Iranian missile systems. This tactical placement enabled the neutralization of key defense installations while minimizing collateral damage. The operation included a separate mission targeting Iranian air defense systems that could have threatened Israeli jets, effectively creating air corridors for potential follow-up strikes. Military analysts note that this level of penetration into Iranian territory represents a significant intelligence achievement.

Neutralizing Nuclear Capabilities

A crucial component of Operation Rising Lion targeted Iran’s nuclear program facilities. The Israeli military confirmed strikes against Iran’s largest uranium enrichment site in an effort to prevent further development of nuclear weapons capabilities. Intelligence assessments had indicated accelerated enrichment activities at this facility, raising concerns about Iran’s nuclear ambitions. The precision strikes reportedly set back Iran’s nuclear program significantly, destroying specialized equipment and damaging critical infrastructure.

In addition to targeting physical infrastructure, Israel claims to have eliminated key Iranian military leaders responsible for the country’s missile and nuclear programs. Among those reportedly neutralized was the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Air Force commander, who oversaw critical aspects of Iran’s military capabilities. The removal of these key personnel is expected to create significant operational challenges for Iran’s military and nuclear ambitions moving forward.

International Response and Analysis

The American Jewish Committee (AJC) has organized an urgent briefing on Operation Rising Lion, bringing together experts to discuss the implications of Israel’s actions. The briefing features AJC CEO Ted Deutch, Jerusalem Director Lt. Col. (res) Avital Leibovich, and Chief Impact and Operations Officer Casey Kustin. The discussion aims to provide context regarding current events, potential future developments, and broader implications for regional stability in the Middle East.

International reaction has been mixed, with Israel’s allies expressing understanding for its security concerns while calling for restraint. Iran has vowed retaliation, with the Revolutionary Guard issuing statements promising a forceful response. Regional observers note that the operation marks a significant escalation in the long-standing tensions between Iran and Israel, potentially reshaping security dynamics throughout the Middle East for years to come.