On June 13, 2025, the Middle East witnessed an unprecedented military escalation between Israel and Iran, after Israel launched a large-scale air operation called “Rising Lion”, targeting Iran’s nuclear and military facilities. Iran retaliated with a barrage of ballistic missiles and drones. Misr Connect presents a full breakdown of the timeline, including the internal economic and social dimensions fueling unrest inside Iran.

1. Israel’s "Rising Lion" Operation

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  Objective: Destroy uranium enrichment sites in Natanz and Fordow, along with military depots and command centers.

  
  


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  Scope: Over 200 precision airstrikes using advanced fighter jets and guided missiles.

  
  


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  Impact: Israel claims to have neutralized key nuclear facilities and assassinated senior Iranian military and scientific figures.

  
  

2. Iran’s Missile Retaliation

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  Missile Count: Over 300 ballistic missiles and drones were launched.

  
  


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  Targets: Tel Aviv, surrounding suburbs, power plants, and military bases.

  
  


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  Defense Response: Israel’s Iron Dome intercepted most threats, though some explosions hit civilian zones, causing damage and injuries.

  
  

3. Domestic Fallout in Iran

3.1 Fuel and Energy Crisis

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  Fuel Shortages: Long lines formed at gas stations amid panic over supply disruptions.

  
  


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  Refinery Strain: Local production slowed, and some export shipments were suspended.

  
  

3.2 Water Shortage and Drought

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  Severe Rainfall Decline: Down by more than 45%; major reservoirs are critically low.

  
  


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  Agricultural Collapse: Food prices surged by nearly 40% as crops failed.

  
  

3.3 Public Protests

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  Renewed Movement: “Woman, Life, Freedom” protests resumed with student and worker strikes.

  
  


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  Public Demands: Economic relief, improved public services, and an end to military overspending.

  
  

4. Global Economic Implications

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  Oil Prices Spike: Global oil futures rose by 8% in response to fears of supply disruption.

  
  


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  Iran’s Inflation: Consumer prices surged by over 30% annually amid rising energy and food costs.

  
  

5. Future Outlook and International Reactions

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  Diplomatic Calls: The UN and EU urged restraint and called for nuclear negotiations.

  
  


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  Risk of Expansion: Analysts warn that the conflict could spill over into Lebanon, Iraq, or beyond.