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Israel strikes Iran, killing military leaders, scientists – DW – 06/13/2025
Skip next section Israel counting on US support, says DW correspondent
06/13/2025
June 13, 2025 Israel counting on US support, says DW correspondent
Israeli strikes on Iran overnight on Friday targeted not only military and nuclear facilities but also senior military commanders and nuclear scientists, according to DW's Jerusalem correspondent Tania Kraemer.
"Several Iranian nuclear scientists were apparently attacked in their homes in neighborhoods in Tehran," Kraemer said.
She said the current focus in Israel is on anticipating Iran's retaliation.
Kraemer said a large number of Iranian air defenses "were taken out" last October, according to Israeli officials.
"So, they had a window of opportunity together with the concern of the nuclear program. There were some expectations this would happen, but nuclear talks between the US and Iran were still ongoing," she said.
A new round of talks is scheduled for Sunday, although it's now unclear if those will proceed, she added.
When asked whether Israel is relying on US support, Kraemer said, "Absolutely."
In previous direct confrontations, there was a strong regional alliance, with the US — Israel's closest ally — being involved, she said.
She said experts believe this couldn't have happened without a green light from the US, despite Secretary of State Marco Rubio's statement that the US was not involved — leaving some room for maneuvering.
