In June 2025, rapid back-and-forth strikes between Iran, Israel and U.S. forces left many readers scrambling for clarity. This timeline explainer cuts through the confusion to map out every major move in the June 2025 Middle East conflict.
Kawthar Metwalli
Timeline of Key Events
June 13, 2025
- Israel launches Operation Start (name not official): surprise airstrikes hit Iranian nuclear and military facilities—targeting sites in Tehran, Fordow, Natanz, and other regions—marking a direct attack after decades of more covert conflict.
- Iran confirms at least 78 killed and over 320 injured, including civilians and military personnel
June 19, 2025
- Iran launched a Sejjil ballistic missile that struck Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba amid a wider missile barrage that hit several Israeli cities
- 71 people lightly injured at Soroka—mostly from shockwaves, falling debris, or while sheltering—according to Israel’s Health Ministry; no confirmed deaths
June 22, 2025
- The United States launches Operation Midnight Hammer, striking three Iranian nuclear sites—Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan—with bunker-buster bombs and cruise missiles.
- No casualties were reported by Iranian authorities; U.S. spokespeople and the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran noted severe structural damage but did not report any injuries or fatalities
June 23, 2025
- Iran retaliates by firing missiles at the U.S. Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar (Operation Glad Tidings of Victory): around six missiles launched; one reportedly hits; no casualties.
- Qatar and other Gulf countries close airspace preemptively; U.S. relocates forces.
- Meanwhile, Israel hits more targets in Tehran, including Evin Prison, IRGC command centers, and the Fordow enrichment facility.
- U.S. President Trump announces on Truth Social that Israel and Iran have “fully agreed” to a phased ceasefire over 24 hours.
June 24, 2025 (Early hours)
- The initial ceasefire window begins; however, both sides accuse the other of violations:
- Israel claims Iran launched missiles into Israeli airspace, prompting orders for renewed strikes.
- Iran denies violations, and London, the Guardian, and Al Jazeera report renewed exchanges despite ceasefire.
June 24, 2025 (Afternoon)
- Israel officially confirms the ceasefire is now in effect, declaring its military objectives accomplished.
- The U.S. and Qatar’s mediation credited with brokering the deal; President Trump describes the truce as marking the end of a “12‑day war”.
- Some remaining operational strikes reportedly occurred just before the truce fully took hold, but the cessation was confirmed around 10:46 UTC.
Notice: All casualty figures are estimates based on official statements, media reporting, and independent tallies. Despite fact‑checking, the true numbers may vary.