On June 19, 2025, the Israeli military carried out airstrikes on key Iranian nuclear sites, including the Khondab heavy water reactor area and the Arak heavy water plant, Israeli media outlet Ynet reported, citing military sources. The attack, carried out as part of the ongoing conflict between Tel Aviv and Tehran, was one of the most brazen strikes on Iranian nuclear infrastructure, prompting a sharp reaction from Iran and concern from the international community. The strikes underscore Israel's determination to undermine Iran's nuclear capabilities despite the risk of further escalation.

According to The Times of Israel, the operation was carried out using F-35 fighter jets equipped with precision-guided munitions capable of hitting hardened targets. The heavy water reactor at Khondab, located in Iran's Central Province, is considered a key element of Iran's nuclear program, as heavy water is used to produce plutonium, a potential weapon material. The Arak plant, according to Reuters, supplies heavy water to research reactors, making it a strategic target. Iranian media, including Fars, confirmed the strikes, reporting "significant damage," but there are no casualty figures yet.

The conflict, which began on June 13 with Israeli attacks on the Natanz nuclear facilities, has left hundreds of casualties and destroyed Iran's military infrastructure. According to Al Jazeera, Tehran has responded with more than 5000 missile and drone strikes on Israel, damaging cities including Haifa. The strikes on Khondab and Arak are aimed at slowing Iran's nuclear programme, which, despite no evidence of weapons production, has alarmed Israel and the West, according to analysts quoted by the BBC. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has previously expressed concern about the limited access of inspectors to the sites, adding to suspicions.