The Israel Air Force (IAF) launched a large-scale strike on Iranian military and nuclear infrastructure in the Tehran area, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed Wednesday. The operation, involving over 50 fighter jets and supported by precise intelligence from the IDF Intelligence Directorate, marks one of the most significant direct Israeli military actions on Iranian soil to date.

The IDF stated that the strikes were focused on neutralizing a centrifuge production facility and several weapons manufacturing sites, including infrastructure used in the development of surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missile systems. Among the most critical targets was a facility producing advanced centrifuges designed for enriching uranium to levels well beyond what is necessary for civilian use, strongly indicating Iran’s continued efforts to develop a nuclear weapons capability.

Ahead of the strikes, the IDF issued warnings to civilians in the 18th district of Tehran, near Mehrabad Airport, urging them to evacuate as a humanitarian precaution. This area housed multiple military production facilities tied to Iran’s weapons development programs.

The operation follows yet another barrage of missiles fired from Iran into Israeli territory on Tuesday night. Air raid sirens blared across central and northern Israel as over 30 missiles were launched in multiple waves. While Israel’s multi-layered air defense system intercepted many of the projectiles, several fragments caused fires and damage to residential areas. Fortunately, no casualties were reported, though Magen David Adom emergency teams treated individuals injured while rushing to bomb shelters.

In response to Israeli countermeasures, Iran has threatened to expand the conflict, warning it could target American military installations in the Middle East if the United States provides direct military assistance to Israel. US intelligence officials, cited by The New York Times, confirmed the threat and are currently assessing contingency plans.

Israel, however, made clear that it will not allow Tehran to continue developing the means to carry out its long-declared goal of Israel’s destruction. “This is part of our ongoing campaign to degrade the Iranian regime’s offensive capabilities and deter future attacks,” the IDF said in its statement.