Drone strikes kill Iranian nuclear scientists in Tehran

Buildings in Tehran's Gisha and Merzdaran neighborhoods that were struck during drone attacks targeting Iranian nuclear scientists were documented by Anadolu Agency (AA) reporters. The attacks, launched by Israel on June 13, killed 11 Iranian nuclear scientists. Most of the scientists died in attacks carried out on their homes in Tehran. According to security sources interviewed by AA correspondents, many of the strikes were carried out using explosive-laden mini drones launched from within the country by Israeli agents, while others were conducted with mini missiles. A drone attack hit a residential building in Tehran's Gisha neighborhood on June 20. According to reports in the Iranian media, a nuclear scientist was killed in the drone strike targeting the civilian building. AA reporters captured footage of the damaged buildings in both the Gisha and Merzdaran districts, where the targeted scientists lived. The Gisha attack caused extensive damage particularly to the lower floors of the building. Structural columns and beams at the front of the building were nearly destroyed, indicating that the strike directly hit the ground and first floors. Nearby buildings also sustained damage from the blast. In the Merzdaran neighborhood, another nuclear scientist was targeted. The upper floors of a five-story building were hit, with the top floor completely destroyed. One scientist, whose name has not been released, was reported to have been killed. Another assassination attempt on a nuclear scientist took place in Merzdaran, this time at the scientist's home. The unnamed individual reportedly survived the attack with injuries. The extent of the destruction indicates the use of high-explosive munitions. Following the attacks on Tehran, many civilians had fled the city. Some have returned home after the ceasefire was declared. It was observed that the homes of neighbors living near the targeted scientists were also severely damaged. Some of the returning residents were seen sifting through the rubble in tears, searching for belongings trapped under the debris. Municipal crews are still working to clear the ruins of the damaged buildings.