Iranian State TV Says Head of Iran's Paramilitary Revolutionary Guard is Feared Dead after Israeli Attack
Iran state TV said early on Friday that there were unconfirmed reports saying that Israel has killed Iran's Revolutionary Guards Commander Hossein Salami.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also said that Israel targeted Iran's main enrichment facility, nuclear scientists and ballistic missile program.
He said the strikes are aimed at hurting Iran's nuclear infrastructure, ballistic missile factories and military capabilities.
For his part, Secretary of State Marco Rubio called Israel's strikes against Iran a "unilateral action" and said Washington was not involved while also urging Tehran not to target US interests or personnel in the region.
"Tonight, Israel took unilateral action against Iran. We are not involved in strikes against Iran and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region," Rubio said in a statement.
"Let me be clear: Iran should not target US interests or personnel," he added.
Meanwhile, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said on Friday that the Israeli airstrikes on Iran was a "really unwelcome development" and that the conflict raised serious concerns for the Middle East.
"That region does not need any more military action and the risk associated with that ... the last thing the region needs is more instability," Luxon told reporters.
Also, Australia Foreign Minister Penny Wong said: "Australia is alarmed by the escalation between Israel and Iran. This risks further destabilizing a region that is already volatile. We call on all parties to refrain from actions and rhetoric that will further exacerbate tensions."
"We all understand the threat of Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile program represents a threat to international peace and security, and we urge the parties to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy."
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