Anadolu documents homes of Iranian nuclear scientists hit by Israel’s drones

ANKARA / TEHRAN, Iran

Anadolu has documented the aftermath of Israeli drone strikes in Tehran that killed at least 11 Iranian nuclear scientists, with civilian buildings left in ruins and grieving residents returning to damaged homes.

The attacks, which began on June 13, targeted residential areas in Tehran’s Gisa and Merzdaran districts, according to Iranian authorities.

Many of the victims died in drone strikes that directly hit their homes, leaving widespread destruction in civilian neighborhoods of the capital.

Security sources told Anadolu that the attacks were likely carried out using explosive-laden mini drones launched domestically by Israeli agents. In some cases, small missiles were also reportedly used.

On June 20, a drone strike hit a residential building in the Gisa neighborhood, killing a nuclear scientist. The lower floors were heavily damaged, with structural pillars and the building’s front facade nearly destroyed. Nearby buildings also sustained damage.

In Merzdaran, a five-story building was hit, with its upper floors severely damaged. Authorities said a nuclear scientist, whose name was not disclosed, was killed. Another scientist survived an assassination attempt in the same area but was injured at his home.

Anadolu footage showed burn marks and structural damage at the sites, suggesting the use of high-explosive munitions.

Following reports of a ceasefire, some residents who had fled the city began returning to their homes. Many were seen searching for belongings beneath the rubble as municipal crews cleared debris.

Israel has launched multiple strikes across Iran since June 13, targeting what it claims are military and nuclear sites. Israeli officials accuse Tehran of advancing toward nuclear weapons capability, a charge Iran strongly denies.

Iran responded with missile and drone attacks, while the United States entered the conflict by bombing three Iranian nuclear facilities on Sunday.