Fact Check: Israel's operation against Iran is the biggest blow since the 1979 revolution.

Fact Check: "Israel's operation against Iran is the biggest blow since the 1979 revolution."

What We Know

On June 12-13, 2025, Israel launched a significant military operation against Iran, dubbed "Operation Rising Lion." This operation targeted numerous Iranian military and nuclear facilities, resulting in the deaths of several high-ranking officials, including commanders of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and key nuclear scientists (source-1, source-2). Analysts have described this military action as a "historic blow" to Iran, marking the most significant loss of leadership for the Iranian regime since the 1979 Islamic Revolution (source-2).

The operation is seen as a direct continuation of Israel's longstanding policy to counter perceived existential threats from Iran, particularly concerning its nuclear ambitions (source-1). Since the revolution, Iran has maintained a hostile stance towards Israel, often referring to it as "the Little Satan" and has been accused of supporting proxy groups that threaten Israeli security (source-1, source-4).

Analysis

The claim that Israel's recent operation against Iran represents the biggest blow to the Iranian regime since the 1979 revolution is supported by multiple sources. The operation's scale and the high-profile nature of the casualties—particularly the deaths of top military and nuclear officials—underscore its significance (source-2). The loss of such leadership is unprecedented in the context of Iranian military history since the revolution, which adds weight to the claim.

However, it is essential to consider the context and potential biases of the sources. The sources reporting on this event include think tanks and media outlets that may have specific perspectives on Middle Eastern geopolitics. For instance, the Middle East Institute (MEI) provides analysis that aligns with U.S. and Israeli interests, which may influence its portrayal of the events (source-2). Additionally, the historical framing of the operation as a continuation of Israel's preemptive military doctrine could reflect a narrative that emphasizes Israel's right to self-defense against perceived threats.

Despite these considerations, the evidence presented in the sources indicates a consensus among analysts that the operation has indeed dealt a significant blow to Iran's military capabilities and leadership structure. The operation's implications for regional stability and the balance of power further reinforce the claim's validity.

Conclusion

Verdict: True
The assertion that Israel's operation against Iran is the biggest blow since the 1979 revolution is supported by credible evidence indicating significant losses for the Iranian leadership and military. The scale and impact of the operation, as well as the historical context, substantiate this claim.

Fact Check: Israel's operation against Iran is the biggest blow since the 1979 revolution.