Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir announced Sunday that the Israeli Air Force has successfully opened a direct air corridor to Tehran, allowing its fighter jets to conduct precision strikes deep into Iranian territory. The operation, dubbed “Rising Lion,” involves missions carried out “hundreds of kilometers away from Israeli territory,” targeting missile sites and strategic infrastructure.
“Our pilots have taken enormous risks over the past 24 hours, flying into hostile airspace to eliminate hundreds of high-value targets,” Zamir stated. He confirmed that Israeli forces are also identifying and destroying missile launchers responsible for attacks on Israeli soil.
In a stern message to the nation, Zamir vowed that “anyone who harms you will pay a heavy price, anywhere and in any arena.” He emphasized that while Israel is deploying advanced defense systems and precision strike methods to minimize casualties, the conflict has already resulted in civilian losses due to Iranian missile strikes. “My heart goes out to the families of the deceased and the wounded,” he added.
Zamir commended Israel’s Home Front Command and other emergency units for their coordination in protecting civilians and managing the ongoing threat. He urged the public to follow all safety instructions as tensions escalate.
Describing the current situation as a “multi-front war,” Zamir also reaffirmed Israel’s ongoing efforts to secure the return of hostages held by Hamas. He honored Sgt.-Maj. Noam Shemesh, who was recently killed in action in Gaza, calling his sacrifice part of Israel’s broader moral mission.
The announcement comes amid heightened regional conflict and continued IDF operations in Gaza and along multiple borders, as Israel attempts to navigate the growing complexities of simultaneous warfare against Iranian proxies and direct threats from Tehran.
