Israeli warplanes launched what Defense Minister called a "preventive strike" against Iranian nuclear facilities shortly after midnight, with explosions reported around Tehran. The operation, codenamed "Rising Lion," killed high-ranking Iranian military officials including the Revolutionary Guard commander and Iran's army chief.
Iran responded by launching over 100 drones toward Israel, prompting authorities to declare a state of emergency. By morning, Iranian Foreign Minister declared the strikes a "war declaration." Israel launched a second wave of attacks targeting additional nuclear sites, reportedly destroying a uranium conversion facility in Isfahan.
The escalation continued throughout the evening as Iran fired hundreds of rockets at Israeli cities in three waves, causing casualties in Tel Aviv. Israeli civilians were ordered into shelters before being allowed to leave as the immediate exchange appeared to conclude. German outlets reported this as the most severe Middle East escalation in decades, with Chancellor Merz warning about broader regional war while the EU complained of being sidelined from developments.