Nir Toiv - Tammuz

The film *Tammuz* explores one of the most daring and significant military operations in the history of the State of Israel: the 1981 strike on the Iraqi nuclear reactor. Through a rare combination of firsthand testimonies and archival footage, the documentary traces every critical stage of the mission, from the dramatic political decision-making process to its precise execution deep within enemy territory. The historical background of the mission, codenamed "Operation Opera," unfolds against the backdrop of rising security tensions with Saddam Hussein’s regime and Israel’s existential fear of a "Doomsday weapon" emerging in the Middle East. The film follows key figures among the leadership and the pilots, presenting the moral and strategic dilemmas faced by Menachem Begin and the Air Force commanders during that momentous era. On a technical and operational level, the film focuses on the advanced capabilities of the F-16 and F-15 fighter jets used in the strike, detailing the logistical challenge of a long-range mission through hostile airspace without mid-air refueling. Viewers are granted insight into the specifics of the navigation systems, the low-altitude flight planning, and the specialized ordnance used to destroy the Osirak reactor in the heart of Baghdad. The significance of the operation resonates to this day, serving as an early manifestation of what became known as the "Begin Doctrine" against the nuclear armament of hostile regional powers. The film leaves viewers with lingering questions regarding the price of Israeli deterrence and the long-term impact of the strike on Middle Eastern stability, the complex relationship between Israel and the international community, and the delicate balance between military and political echelons.

תמלול הסרטון