First iodocyclization of β-allenic phosphonates: a novel synthesis of α-difluoromethylenephostones

Six-membered α-difluoromethylenephostones were prepared in moderate to good yields with high regioselectivities under mild conditions from the iodocyclization reaction of diethyl β-allenic α,α-difluorophosphonates using I2 or ICl as the electrophile.