Washington Post Journalists Targeted in Suspected Chinese Cyberattack
June 16, 2025
Four Years of Impunity Since Gustavo Sánchez Cabrera’s Murder
June 17, 2025
June 16, 2025 – Iran/Israel –
Israeli forces launched a targeted airstrike on the headquarters of Iran’s state television, Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), in Tehran. The attack occurred while a live broadcast was underway, dramatically cutting off the transmission. Viewers witnessed the moment of impact as the studio was filled with dust and the anchor abruptly fled, after which the broadcast was switched to pre-recorded programming. While Iranian state media confirmed damage to the studio, there are unconfirmed reports of casualties among the technical staff.
The strike on the IRIB building marked a significant escalation in the ongoing military confrontation between Israel and Iran, part of Israel’s wider military campaign named “Operation Rising Lion.” This operation, launched on June 13, aims to dismantle Iran’s nuclear program, ballistic missile infrastructure, and Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) command centers. Over 100 strategic sites have been targeted across key Iranian cities, including Tehran, Natanz, and Isfahan. Israeli officials claim the campaign has severely crippled Iran’s military capabilities.
The conflict has resulted in heavy casualties on both sides. Iranian sources report over 224 fatalities and more than 1,200 injuries, though human rights organizations suggest the true toll could be higher, exceeding 400 civilian deaths. In retaliation, Iran launched a barrage of missile strikes against Israel, killing at least eight people and wounding hundreds more. Israel’s air defense systems reportedly intercepted many of these attacks, preventing even greater destruction.
The strike on a state media facility during a live broadcast has drawn widespread international condemnation, raising concerns over the targeting of civilian infrastructure, violations of press freedom, and breaches of international humanitarian law. The United Nations, G7, and major powers like Russia, China, and the European Union have urgently called for de-escalation, warning of the severe risk of a full-scale regional war.
The attack on IRIB not only symbolizes a dangerous new phase in the Israel-Iran conflict but also highlights the vulnerability of civilian and media institutions during modern warfare. As tensions rise, the international community remains on high alert, hoping to prevent further bloodshed and regional destabilization.
Reference –
https://www.dw.com/en/israel-strikes-iranian-state-tv-in-new-attack-on-tehran/live-72919550
https://www.ft.com/content/f49d59ef-2d10-4bee-9cee-59fe4dbbeee8
