Airspace shut down, IDF announces nationwide state of emergency. Civilians have been urged to remain near shelters as Iranian media reports explosions in central Tehran in presidential compound.
The coordinated strike plan launched early Saturday was formulated over the past several weeks, with the precise timing determined in recent days. Within the Israeli security establishment, officials believe that the best defense is a strong offense.
LIVEBLOG: “This will be probably your only chance for generations,” Trump emphasized to the publication. “For many years, you have asked for America’s help, but you never got it. No president was willing to do what I am willing to do tonight.
According to Politico, senior White House officials would like Israel to deliver the opening blow against Iran, arguing it would give the US greater public backing and legitimacy to enter the war if its bases are attacked in retaliation.
According to an i24NEWS report, a senior Shin Bet official took part in smuggling goods into the Gaza Strip in exchange for large sums of money. Authorities found 6.5 million shekels, approximately $2.1 million, in his possession.
Bloomberg reports NATO steps up E-3 surveillance flights to monitor Iran, as the US confirms at least 12 stealth F-22s that took off from base in UK have landed in southern Israel.
A senior regional source says Hamas fears its weapons will be seized – because Palestinians themselves may seek revenge against the terror group – and warns Israel to expect a lengthy process.
US intelligence agencies conclude that Tehran is unlikely to soften its position, according to sources in Washington and Jerusalem, as Israeli officials assess that a kinetic US action against Iran could come within days to weeks.
The IDF believe that despite optimistic signals emerging from the recent talks in Geneva, the conditions for a potential US strike on Iran are increasing. In response, israel factors in the possibility that Tehran could launch long-range missiles towards it.
Ofri Yafe was mistakenly shot due to misidentification during operations in the southern Gaza Strip. He is the first IDF fatality in the Gaza Strip since January 22.
