Iran launched sustained missile strikes against Tel Aviv through the night, killing at least three and injuring dozens as the Iron Dome system faltered. Tehran's Supreme Leader escalated beyond the previous day's nuclear facility exchanges by directly threatening UK, US and French military bases if they defended Israel.
By afternoon, Prime Minister Starmer announced RAF jets would deploy to the Middle East, marking Britain's direct military involvement in the conflict that began with Israel's "Operation Rising Lion" two days earlier. Iran warned of "heavy and destructive" imminent attacks while Israel struck oil installations, declaring "Tehran will burn."
The Royal Family appeared together at Trooping the Colour, with extensive coverage of Kate Middleton's return and Prince Louis charming crowds. Starmer separately announced a grooming gangs inquiry despite previously dismissing such calls as "far-right."
Fresh Iranian missile barrages entered Israeli airspace by evening as the conflict entered its second full day.