Israeli envoy says strikes on Iran, Hezbollah continue as war enters 13th day

Israel’s ambassador to the United States, Yechiel Leiter, said on day 13 of “Operation Roaring Lion” that Israeli military actions against targets in Iran and Lebanon are ongoing amid broader regional hostilities.

In a statement posted on social media platform X, Leiter said Israeli forces continued to strike Iranian and Iran‑aligned groups, including Iran’s Basij paramilitary units and roadblocks in Tehran intended to restrict civilian movement, as well as command centres and launch sites linked to Hezbollah in Lebanon, Caliber.Az reports. 

We’re at day 13 of operation #RoaringLion - here’s today’s update:

- The cracks in the Iranian regime are widening: officials, stationed aoutside of Iran are abandoning their posts and asking for asylum in various countries.

- ⁠One of the two American aircraft involved in the…

— Ambassador Yechiel (Michael) Leiter (@yechielleiter) March 13, 2026

The ambassador also said that one of two U.S. aircraft involved in a recent accident over Iraq landed safely in Israel, and that Israel’s air force chief had been briefed by U.S. Central Command (AFCENT) on preliminary findings. 

Leiter said some Iranian officials stationed abroad had abandoned their posts and sought asylum in other countries, a sign he characterised as indicating “cracks” within the Iranian regime.

By Sabina Mammadli