Israel launched a large-scale, coordinated strike on Iran early Saturday, targeting key components of the Islamic Republic's missile array. The offensive, dubbed Operation Lion's Roar, was formulated over the past several weeks, with the precise timing finalized in recent days.
According to security officials, the extensive wave of strikes is expected to continue in the coming days and will focus on a broad target bank across Iran. In the opening hours, the emphasis has been on degrading Tehran's missile launch capabilities in an effort to reduce the number of projectiles fired toward the State of Israel.
The IDF is striking, among other targets, elements of Iran's missile system in order to limit as much as possible the volume of missiles launched at Israeli territory. Defense officials assess that Iran will ultimately succeed in launching missiles toward Israel, but estimate it will take several hours at least before it can organize significant barrages.
Close coordination with the US, particularly between the IDF and US Central Command, has played a central role in the planning and execution of the operation. Israeli officials described the military cooperation as exceptionally tight.
Within the defense establishment, officials say they believe the best defense is a strong offense. The objective, they explain, is to destroy as many missiles and launchers as possible within a short time frame. Should American forces expand their own strikes to additional targets, the IDF would be able to redirect substantial resources toward further dismantling Iran's missile infrastructure.
Security officials characterized the unfolding campaign as both a historic event and a rare strategic opportunity.
In parallel, Israel's air defense array has been preparing in recent weeks for an unprecedented deployment, officials said, on a scale not seen even during Operation Rising Lion, the previous large-scale military campaign.
