Iran Strikes Back: Over 100 Drones Launched in Retaliation to Israeli Airstrikes

Iran Retaliates with Force: 100 Drones Launched Toward Israel

In a dramatic turn of events, Iran launched over 100 drones towards Israel in a calculated and forceful retaliation following an Israeli military strike on several high-value Iranian targets. The situation has raised tensions to a critical level, threatening to destabilize the already fragile Middle East region.

The confrontation began with Operation Rising Lion, an Israeli offensive carried out in the early hours of June 13, 2025. Israeli jets reportedly targeted and destroyed multiple Iranian military facilities, including nuclear development sites and missile storage complexes. According to official sources and major global media outlets, high-ranking Iranian military officers, including Gen. Hossein Salami and Gen. Mohammad Bagheri, were killed in the strikes. Additionally, several scientists from Iran’s nuclear program also lost their lives.

In response to the attack, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed that Israel would face "unprecedented consequences." Within 24 hours, Iran launched what many defense analysts are calling one of the largest drone offensives in modern history.


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Details of the Drone Offensive

According to Iranian military spokespersons, the drones used in the strike were primarily from the Shahed-series UAVs, known for their long range and autonomous targeting capabilities. The drones were launched from multiple undisclosed locations across Iran, with their primary targets believed to be military installations and strategic assets inside Israel.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) quickly responded, intercepting a large portion of the drones using the Iron Dome and David’s Sling defense systems. Reports indicate that Jordan and Iraq also activated their air defense systems as several drones entered their airspace en route to Israel.

The IDF released a statement saying:

> "We confirm that more than 100 UAVs were launched by Iran toward Israeli territory. We are closely monitoring all trajectories and responding accordingly."



Israel has reported limited infrastructure damage and a small number of injuries but has not yet released full details on casualties or the extent of damage.


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Airspace Closures and Regional Impact

The escalating military actions triggered widespread closures of airspace across the Middle East. Iran, Iraq, Jordan, and Israel have temporarily suspended all civilian flights, redirecting or canceling air traffic. International airlines have issued travel warnings, and global oil prices spiked by more than 7% within hours of the drone attack.

Major cities in Iran have experienced nationwide alerts, and residents in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem were advised to seek shelter as sirens wailed throughout the night.


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Global Reactions and Diplomatic Fallout

World leaders responded swiftly to the escalation. The United Nations Security Council called for an emergency session, while the United States condemned the Iranian drone attack but stopped short of supporting direct retaliation.

U.S. State Department officials clarified that while Washington was informed of Israel’s Operation Rising Lion, it was not involved in planning or execution. President Donald Trump urged both sides to exercise restraint and signaled willingness to resume stalled nuclear negotiations with Iran—though this appears unlikely under current circumstances.

The European Union, meanwhile, warned that continued aggression could trigger broader conflict involving Lebanon, Syria, and other regional powers. NATO called the developments “deeply concerning” and stressed the need for immediate de-escalation.


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What’s Next?

Analysts warn that this exchange may not be the end. Iran’s drone offensive marks a significant shift in regional warfare, showcasing Tehran’s growing capabilities and willingness to respond with direct action. Israel, known for its swift and aggressive responses, may consider further military options.

Experts also fear the involvement of proxy militias allied with Iran, such as Hezbollah in Lebanon and militias in Iraq and Syria, could drag the conflict beyond the borders of Iran and Israel.

With diplomacy on the edge and military forces on high alert, the world watches anxiously to see whether the region will spiral into a larger war or pull back from the brink.