Israel Achieves Air Superiority Over Iran Amid Ongoing Strikes

Israeli forces have executed extensive airstrikes targeting Iran's nuclear facilities and military leaders, with Prime Minister Netanyahu asserting that the nation has effectively dismantled layers of Iranian protection, leading to a civil unrest as the country grapples with the consequences.

Israel's military campaign against Iran has escalated, showcasing a strategic advantage that has enabled Israeli forces to strike with relative impunity across Iranian territories, including its capital, Tehran. Recent airstrikes have reportedly claimed the lives of numerous high-ranking military officials and civilians, resulting in a cumulative death toll of at least 128, according to Iranian health authorities.

Israeli officials, both current and former, have confirmed that the overwhelming assaults are largely possible due to the systematic dismantling of Iran’s air defense systems. Yechiel Leiter, Israel’s ambassador to the U.S., claimed that Israel has established "near-air superiority" over Iran, which indicates a critical turning point in the ongoing conflict.

Despite Israel's advancements, there are still operational challenges, as remnants of Iran's air defenses remain active. Reports suggest that some Israeli drones have been intercepted, leading to casual exchanges among Iranian officials expressing frustration over their inability to prevent incursions. To mitigate these threats, Israeli pilots depend heavily on real-time intelligence and pre-planned routes to circumvent remaining defensive measures.

The evolution of Israel's air dominance did not occur overnight; it has been a calculated effort over the past year. Key strikes in April and October last year effectively targeted and neutralized essential aspects of Iran’s air defense capabilities. Prime Minister Netanyahu recently remarked during an interview that Israel's strategic efforts have continually pruned away at Iran's protective layers.

The Israeli military’s ongoing operations allow them to strike targets repeatedly—an ability emphasized by former Mossad official Zohar Palti, who noted that missed targets could be revisited swiftly, presenting a threat to Iranian command and infrastructure consistently.

As Iran faces mounting losses and challenges in its defense strategy, the internal conversations among officials reflect a growing concern over their vulnerabilities. The implications of Israel’s air strikes reverberate beyond just military engagements, indicating a potential shift in the regional balance of power.

Farnaz Fassihi contributed to this report. Adam Rasgon and Natan Odenheimer cover Israeli and Palestinian affairs for The Times in Jerusalem.