Israel begins retaliatory attacks against Iran

Top line

Israel has begun attacking military targets in Iran, Israel Defense Forces saying Friday, fueling concerns of further escalation between the two countries as Israel responds to a full-scale war. missile attack launched by Iran earlier this month.

(Photo by ABIR SULTAN/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

POOL/AFP via Getty Images

Key facts

The IDF said in a statement that it is carrying out “precise strikes” against military targets, arguing that it has the right to respond to recent attacks by Iran.

The IDF announcement coincides with reports on Iranian state television of explosions in several parts of the country, including its capital, Tehran. axios reported.

Three unnamed US defense officials said NBC News The United States was informed of the attack before the attacks, noting that the United States is not involved.

White House National Security Council spokesman Sean Savett said in a statement that “we understand that Israel is carrying out targeted strikes against military targets in Iran.”

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.