Israel has confirmed carrying out airstrikes on nuclear facilities in Iran as part of a military operation it has dubbed Operation Rising Lion, amid soaring regional tensions.

According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), the strikes targeted multiple nuclear sites across Iran. 

Explosions were reported in several parts of Tehran, with residents describing loud blasts and power disruptions in parts of the capital.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the operation was a necessary response to what he described as an "imminent threat to Israel's very survival" posed by Iran’s nuclear ambitions. 

The offensive marks one of the most direct and dramatic escalations between the two longtime adversaries.

Israel has since declared a nationwide state of emergency, with authorities stating they expect retaliatory strikes "in the immediate future".

Iranian state media reported that residential areas in Tehran were struck, with children among the casualties. These reports have not been independently verified.

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In a separate claim, Iranian broadcasters said Major General Hossein Salami, the commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, was killed during the strikes. 

No official confirmation has been issued by Iranian authorities.

The United States has denied any role in the attack. Speaking at a press briefing, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stressed that the US had “no involvement or assistance in the Israeli operation”.

International responses have started to emerge, with Australia expressing deep concern. 

"We are alarmed by the sharp escalation and call for restraint from all sides," a spokesperson for Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs said.

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The situation remains fluid as global powers monitor the fallout from the strikes and potential Iranian retaliation. 

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has reportedly called for an emergency Security Council meeting.

Source: With inputs from BBC