Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant told his U.S. counterpart Lloyd Austin about the “success of Israel’s strikes against Iran,” while also discussing the “strategic opportunities” that could arise from this situation. According to Gallant’s office, the conversation included initial assessments of the strikes on Iranian missile production facilities, surface-to-air missile sites and air capabilities. The conversation also touched on the strategic opportunities that arise from operational successes in both the northern and southern fronts, referring to the conflicts in Lebanon and Gaza.

Meanwhile, the Israeli military ordered residents of 14 villages in southern Lebanon to evacuate “immediately” for security reasons. IDF Arab spokesman Avichay Adraee urged residents to move north of the Awali River, warning that those near Hezbollah facilities or weapons were at significant risk.

Gallant also said that securing the release of the hostages in Gaza would require “painful concessions,” noting that not all goals can be achieved through military action alone. In a commemorative speech on the anniversary of the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, he stressed the need to make sacrifices to fulfill the moral duty to bring the hostages home.

A dramatic incident occurred when a driver, Rami Nathur of Kalanswa, the alleged attacker at a bus stop in Tel Aviv, was neutralized by shots fired by civilians. The driver’s family said he had a heart condition and that the incident was unintentional. Police confirmed that the truck driver was shot after he ran over a group of people at a bus stop.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the current situation as a long existential war and vowed a continued fight against those who threaten Israel’s security. At a memorial service for the victims of the Iron Swords campaign, Netanyahu expressed his determination to prosecute the killers and their supporters.

Netanyahu also said that the attacks on Iran were conducted with precision and achieved all their intended objectives. He said that Israel is following a systematic plan to target Iranian defense capabilities and eliminate threats to its security.

In the attack on the bus stop north of Tel Aviv, it was reported that more than 40 people were injured, including ten in serious condition. The truck driver was killed in the incident, which occurred near the headquarters of the Mossad and the Israeli military. Witnesses said the truck sped toward the group.

Following Israeli attacks in Iran, the UN Security Council will convene at Iran’s request