Press Briefing by IDF Spokesperson, BG Effie Defrin-June 14, 2025

13.06.25
IDF

At this hour, Israeli Air Force pilots continue to conduct widespread strikes across various regions in Iran — an ongoing operation lasting nearly 40 hours and targeting over 150 objectives. Over the past day, the primary focus has been Tehran — the capital of the Iranian Ayatollah regime, the head of the octopus. From there, a murderous regime of terror is orchestrated, threatening the entire Western world. Tehran is no longer immune. Thanks to precise airstrikes and years of intelligence gathered by the IDF Intelligence Directorate, we have broken through to the heart of Iran. Following a systematic and sophisticated dismantling of Iran’s air defense systems, hundreds of IAF aircraft now hold aerial superiority over western Iran and Tehran.

IAF aircraft are completing a wave of strikes against military and strategic assets, nuclear program sites, and high-ranking figures in Iran’s terror leadership. These are significant targets at the very heart of Iran and its terrorist proxies. An example of such a target is the underground site currently shown on screen, located in Khorramabad, western Iran. This facility contained launch shafts and dozens of missiles stored in underground tunnels. This was a significant site, which was previously showcased in Iranian regime propaganda videos. It was struck, and the senior officials associated with it have also been eliminated. It is important to understand — the missiles stored there were intended for launch, on command, against Israeli civilians or even Western security forces in the Middle East. These could have been launched at Israel last night. Our preliminary planning and intelligence enabled us to thwart parts of Iran’s planned attack.

Dozens of other such sites have also been destroyed. Regarding Iran’s nuclear program, we struck two major facilities — the Natanz enrichment plant and the Isfahan conversion facility. We also neutralized nine senior Iranian nuclear scientists. The damage to Iran’s nuclear program, missile systems, and terror leadership constitutes a major blow to the existential threat Iran attempts to impose on Israel. We continue to deepen this impact. The Iranian regime intended to carry out a massive barrage of missiles across Israel in retaliation for our preemptive strike.

However, as we have seen, the Iranian regime still possesses significant firing capabilities that can cause substantial harm. Tragically, three Israeli civilians lost their lives due to last night’s missile fire. I again express our condolences and support to their families. We have excellent and advanced aerial defense systems, but they are not airtight. Your composure and resilience as citizens are commendable. I call on you to continue following updated Home Front Command instructions — they save lives. The combination of air defense and your discipline in following instructions is the key to saving lives.

Following a situational assessment, it has been decided that the protective measures will remain in effect. Schools will remain closed tomorrow. Alongside the operation in Iran, IDF soldiers are simultaneously deployed across all operational arenas — in both defense and offense — ready for any developments and committed to defending the country and your safety. IDF commanders continuously assess the situation to ensure each arena receives the optimal response. In Gaza, combat continues throughout the Strip, with our troops fighting with determination and courage. IDF soldiers in the air, on land, and at sea continue to destroy dozens of Hamas terror targets and eliminate operatives. In the north, we have completed mobilization of reserve units deployed along the Lebanon and Syria borders. If necessary, we have offensive plans ready against anyone who attempts to attack or challenge us in the northern arena.

In Judea and Samaria, we have reinforced with many regular and reserve troops. These forces are carrying out offensive missions and strengthening defense in the communities and along the security border. I want to address the families of the hostages watching this evening. It is important you know — your loved ones, the 53 hostages, are constantly on our minds. They remain our supreme mission in this war. We do not forget this for a moment. To conclude, I emphasize — the Iranian attacks are not behind us. We must remain alert and vigilant. Stay calm and act responsibly. I will continue to update you as needed.

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