Israel launched an attack on Iran. Defense Minister, Israel Katz, declared a state of emergency.

Israel declared on Saturday that it has launched a preemptive strike against Iran, escalating the military conflict in the Middle East and diminishing the chances of a diplomatic solution to the long-standing nuclear dispute. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that the attack aims to eliminate threats to the Israeli state. Explosions were reported in Tehran, and images showed black smoke following the strikes.

Despite the resumption of negotiations between the United States and Iran in February, Israel has insisted that any agreement must include the dismantling of Iran's nuclear infrastructure and restrictions on its missile program. Iran has stated that it is open to discussions regarding its nuclear program but will not accept linking it to missiles. Tehran has threatened that it will defend itself against any attack and will retaliate against American bases in the region. Tensions have risen, and Western powers warn that Iran's missile program could destabilize the region and facilitate the development of nuclear weapons.