Fact Check: "IDF spokesman Brigadier General Effie Defrin stated that Tehran is no longer immune to Israeli strikes and that aerial freedom of operation has been established in western Iran."
What We Know
On June 14, 2025, Brigadier General Effie Defrin, the spokesman for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), made significant statements regarding Israel's military operations in Iran. He announced that Israel had conducted extensive airstrikes targeting over 150 locations, including missile infrastructure and nuclear-related facilities, as part of Operation Rising Lion. Defrin emphasized that "the path to Tehran has been paved," indicating that Israeli aircraft had achieved operational freedom in the airspace over Tehran and western Iran (source). He stated, "Tehran is no longer immune," which reflects a shift in Israel's military posture towards Iran, suggesting that the capital and its regime institutions are now vulnerable to Israeli strikes (source).
Analysis
The statements made by Brigadier General Defrin are corroborated by multiple credible sources. For instance, a report from Axios confirmed that the Israeli Air Force has indeed achieved "full freedom of operation" in the airspace around Tehran, aligning with Defrin's claims (source). Additionally, the Jerusalem Post detailed the specifics of the airstrikes, noting that Israeli jets operated over Tehran for an extended period, supported by drones, which facilitated targeting and intelligence operations (source).
The reliability of these sources is high, as they are established news outlets with a history of reporting on military and geopolitical issues. The Jerusalem Post and Axios are known for their coverage of Israeli defense matters, and their reports are typically based on official statements and verified information.
However, it is important to consider the context of military announcements, which can sometimes be influenced by strategic communication objectives. The IDF may emphasize operational successes to bolster domestic morale or deter adversaries. Nevertheless, the consistency across multiple reports lends credibility to Defrin's statements.
Conclusion
The claim that "IDF spokesman Brigadier General Effie Defrin stated that Tehran is no longer immune to Israeli strikes and that aerial freedom of operation has been established in western Iran" is True. The evidence from multiple reliable sources confirms that Defrin made these statements and that they reflect the current operational capabilities of the Israeli military in the region.
