Israel launched extensive strikes against Iran's nuclear facilities before dawn, targeting the Natanz reactor and assassinating Revolutionary Guard commanders and nuclear scientists in Tehran. Israeli sources described eight months of preparation for the operation, while Netanyahu declared it marked a "historic turning point" against the Iranian axis.
Iran initially announced it was "fighting a battle in the sky" but promised unlimited retaliation. By evening, Iran launched "Al-Waad Al-Sadeq 3" operation, with dozens of ballistic missiles striking central Tel Aviv directly. Israeli media reported the city was "in shock" with widespread destruction, missing persons, and one confirmed Israeli death.
Regional powers scrambled to contain escalation. Israel relocated its aircraft fleet to Greece and Cyprus, while Washington deployed destroyers to the region. France and Saudi Arabia postponed their two-state solution conference. Gaza remained under digital isolation for a third consecutive day as the conflict entered its 616th day.