Israel vows to continue strikes on Iran until nuclear threat neutralised Effie Defrin

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will persist with their military campaign against Iran’s nuclear program until all strategic goals are fulfilled, a senior military official announced on June 22.

Speaking at a press briefing, IDF spokesperson Effie Defrin reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to what he called a critical national security mission, Caliber.Az writes, citing Ynet.

“We are operating with a clear purpose — to eliminate the existential threat posed to the State of Israel. We have a defined plan and objectives, and we are continuously working to implement them,” Defrin stated. “The operation will continue until those goals are fully achieved.”

Defrin reiterated the IDF’s readiness for a drawn-out conflict, echoing the recent statement by IDF Chief of General Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, who said the army is "preparing for a prolonged campaign."

“We must be prepared for any development,” Defrin added, signalling the likelihood of sustained military engagement.

According to Agence France-Presse (AFP), Israeli military sources also indicated that the operation encompasses “other targets” within Iranian territory, underscoring the broader scope of the campaign beyond nuclear sites.

The operation, dubbed “Rising Lion” began on June 13, with preemptive strikes targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities, military infrastructure, senior military officers, and nuclear scientists. The primary objective is to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon by targeting key nuclear infrastructure, including uranium enrichment facilities at Natanz, Fordow, and Esfahan, as well as research and production sites. Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, have stated that Iran was on the verge of weaponising its nuclear program, with enough enriched uranium for several nuclear bombs. The campaign aims to set back Iran’s nuclear capabilities by years, targeting centrifuge production, enrichment halls, and critical support infrastructure.

The IDF has prioritised degrading Iran’s ballistic missile arsenal and air defence systems to limit Tehran’s ability to respond effectively. Over 200 missile launchers (approximately half of Iran’s total) and 35–45% of its ballistic missile stockpile have been destroyed so far.

By Khagan Isayev