IRGC launches Operation Nasr targeting Israeli airbases

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has announced the launch of "Operation Nasr," with its Aerospace Force fighters attacking key centers at two of Israel's most strategically significant air bases, Nevatim and Tel Nof. The IRGC's public relations office said the operation began on Monday morning, dedicated as a tribute to the martyrs of the 12-day war, and was carried out under the codeword "Ya Heydar Karrar."

In its statement, the IRGC said the operation was launched in direct response to Israeli missile strikes on Iranian radar sites at three locations across the country. "With trust in Almighty God, minutes ago the brave fighters of the IRGC Aerospace Force launched Operation Nasr, targeting key centres of the strategic air bases of Nevatim and Tel Nof," the statement read, citing the Quranic verse: “Those who have been attacked are permitted to take up arms because they have been wronged. God has the power to help them.”

The IRGC statement emphasized that the speed of response to Israeli military aggression and the scope of its target bank are core features of operations at this stage of the conflict. The statement added that all IRGC combat and operational units are at full readiness to conduct wider retaliatory operations across all fronts, with action plans prepared in line with various enemy scenarios.

According to Mehr News, the IRGC's announcement marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel. The operation is named "Nasr," meaning victory, and is seen as a direct military retaliation. The targeted airbases, Nevatim and Tel Nof, are key assets for the Israeli Air Force, housing advanced aircraft and critical infrastructure. The IRGC's use of the codeword "Ya Heydar Karrar" references Imam Ali (a.s.), a central figure in Shia Islam, underscoring the religious dimension of the conflict. The report by Mehr News added that the IRGC has put all its units on high alert for potential further operations.