In the early hours of Saturday morning, reports emerged of major explosions rocking the Iranian capital, amid claims from Israel that it had carried out a preemptive strike.
Loud Blasts and Smoke Reported in Central Tehran
According to on-the-ground reports, two powerful explosions were audible in Tehran on Saturday morning. Simultaneously, two plumes of dense smoke were observed rising over central and eastern districts of the Iranian capital.
“The nature of these blasts suggests that this is a missile attack,” a media outlet reported, without immediately provide additional information.
Context: Escalating Tensions and Prior Events
The incident takes place against a backdrop of sharply increased strains in the region. Major developments preceding this strike involve:
- US Military Buildup: A massive buildup of US naval forces in the region, featuring the repositioning of aircraft carriers.
- Diplomatic Negotiations: Latest discussions between the US and Iranian officials on Tehran's atomic program concluded without a deal, with suggestions of further talks scheduled.
- Official Rhetoric: Before the attack, a senior US official had labeled Iran as “the world’s number one sponsor of terror” and delivered threats regarding its missile program.
- Diplomatic Deadline: Reportedly, a deadline of 10 to 15 days had been given to Iran to resolve the nuclear dispute or face severe consequences.
Iranian Response
Reacting to prior accusations, Iranian authorities had charged the United States of spreading “falsehoods” about its missiles programme. They rejected assertions about missile development and protest deaths as unfounded.
These developments is fast-moving, with further updates expected as the situation develops.
