Overview
- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a Persian-language appeal telling Iranians their “help has arrived” and calling this a once-in-a-generation chance to overthrow the regime.
- Netanyahu said Israel is striking “in the heart of Tehran” with growing intensity and vowed to hit thousands of additional targets in coordination with U.S. forces.
- Iranian state television confirmed Khamenei’s death, and senior cleric Alireza Arafi was named to temporarily lead the system as succession arrangements take shape.
- Iran retaliated with missiles and drones targeting Israel and U.S.-aligned states across the Gulf, with interceptions reported and regional leaders condemning the escalation.
- Israeli officials reported deadly impacts from Iranian strikes, including at least nine killed in Beit Shemesh and casualties in Tel Aviv, as Netanyahu acknowledged “painful days” for the country.