Executive Summary:
- On Friday, 13 June 2025, Israel announced it targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities, ballistic missile factories, and military commanders at the start of “Operation Rising Lion” a prolonged operation to prevent Tehran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.
- An Israeli military official confirmed Israel was striking “dozens” of nuclear and military targets.
- Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a statement confirming top military officials and scientists were killed in the strikes, as well as acknowledging the targeting of nuclear and military sites.
- Individuals and organizations concerned with regional geopolitical tensions and the escalating conflicts potential to impact business, assets, operations, or supply chains should consider contacting RMS International’s Intelligence Services at ask@rmsiusa.com to develop a customized and resilient risk assessment
Situation Report (SITREP):
On Friday, 13 June 2025, Israel announced it targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities, ballistic missile factories, and military commanders at the start of “Operation Rising Lion” a prolonged operation to prevent Tehran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. More than 200 Israeli aircrafts targeted sites including Iran’s main uranium enrichment facility at Natanz as well as nuclear sites such as Fordow, Khondab, Isfahan, and Busher. An Israeli military official confirmed Israel was striking “dozens” of nuclear and military targets. The operation also included covert actions by the Mossad to disrupt Iranian missile defenses internally. Iranian officials confirmed the deaths of Hossein Salami, IRGC Commander-in-Chief Hossein Salami, who was killed in the IRGC’s headquarters in Tehran. Iran’s Fars News reported the Iranian Military Chief of Staff, Mohammed Bagheri was also killed. Additionally, six key nuclear scientists were confirmed killed by the Tasnim news agency.
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a statement confirming top military officials and scientists were killed in the strikes, as well as acknowledging the targeting of nuclear and military sites. “With this crime, the Zionist regime has set itself for a bitter and painful fate and it will definitely receive it.” Khamenei said, without directing a threat towards the US. Iran has already launched its first military response. Over 100 drones were deployed to target Israel; however, most of the unmanned aerial vehicles were intercepted by Israeli defense systems. Rescue operations are ongoing in Tel Aviv as some of the drones were not intercepted.
Impact Analysis and Recommended Course of Action:
The international community has expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict. The United States (US) emphasized the need for diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation. European and Middle Eastern nations, including the UK, Germany, Egypt, and Jordan, have called for restraint and warned against actions that could lead to a broader regional war. Despite the US’ attempt to publicly distance itself from the Israeli-led operation, Iran is likely to target US-associated facilities In Iraq to pressure Washington, DC to exert restraint on Israel and facilitate a de-escalation. Iran publicly announced its withdrawal from upcoming nuclear talks with the US and declared its intent to continue retaliatory actions.
While the conflict is still in its infancy, escalation seems inevitable. The start of Operation Rising Lion has already led to increased volatility in global markets, with oil prices surging over 7% amid fears of broader regional instability Israel has mobilized tens of thousands of troops and closed its airspace in anticipation of further Iranian actions. The situation remains fluid, with the potential for significant regional and global ramifications.
While direct attacks targeting the US homeland remain unlikely, the possibility of anti-Israel protests is almost certain. The “No Kings Day” demonstrations scheduled for June 14 are expected to gain momentum from the recent conflict may incorporate a new or increased anti-Israel message into planned demonstrations. Similarly, while Iranian state-sponsored attacks on the US homeland remain unlikely, the possibility of lone actor inspired attacks, similar to the recent terror attack in Boulder, Colorado, remains a possibility. Individuals and organizations concerned with regional geopolitical tensions and the escalating conflicts potential to impact businesses, assets, operations, or supply chains should consider contacting RMS International’s Intelligence Services at ask@rmsiusa.com to develop a customized risk assessment
About RMS International:
Founded in 2012, RMS International provides ad hoc and contracted close protection, estate security, international travel management, corporate executive protection, personnel and asset security, and discreet investigative services. Operating a state-of-the-art Risk Operations Center in West Palm Beach, they provide 24/7 overwatch of global operations in Asia, Europe, Africa and throughout the Americas. RMS International delivers peace of mind in a chaotic world. Connect with us at RMSIUSA.com