Sirens sounded in central Israel and Jerusalem

Explosions reported in Tehran

Ministry of Health: Hospitals instructed to raise alert level to the highest state of readiness

Defense Minister Katz declares special state of emergency

<p>Iranian state television has reported that Revolutionary Guards commander Hossein Salami has been eliminated.</p>

<p>Opposition Leader Yair Lapid received a pre-operation briefing through official channels.</p><p>“Lapid expresses his support and appreciation for the security forces and their efforts to protect the citizens of Israel.”</p>

<p>Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich issued a statement following the launch of Operation "Rising Lion" against Iran’s nuclear and missile infrastructure, emphasizing that this is a necessary preemptive strike for the security and future of the State of Israel.</p><p>“The State of Israel launched tonight a necessary preemptive strike for our security, future, and existence. We are acting to remove an existential threat posed by the antisemitic Ayatollah regime, which publicly calls for our destruction and pursues it in a practical and concrete manner. Many months of intensive and professional preparation by the IDF and other security branches culminated tonight, and I want to thank the Chief of Staff and all those involved for their determination and professionalism," he said.</p><p>"Citizens of Israel, we all must show determination and patience in the coming days, and I urge you to strictly follow the Home Front Command’s instructions—they save lives. The Ministry of Finance is prepared to support the war efforts both on the frontlines and at home, to ensure maximum continuity of the economy and financial systems,” added Smotrich.</p>

<p>Defense sources told the <i>Reuters </i>news agency that Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is alive and receiving updates about the Israeli strikes.</p>