In the early hours of Saturday, reports emerged of major blasts shaking the Iranian capital, amid statements from Israeli officials that it had conducted a preventative strike.
Loud Blasts and Plumes of Smoke Reported in Central Tehran
According to eyewitness accounts, two powerful explosions were audible in Tehran on Saturday morning. Simultaneously, two plumes of thick smoke were observed rising over central and eastern districts of the Iranian capital.
“The type of explosions indicates that this is a strike involving missiles,” one news agency reported, though it did not immediately offer additional information.
Background: Rising Tensions and Prior Events
The incident takes place against a background of sharply increased strains in the Middle East. Key events leading up to this attack include:
- American Naval Deployment: A massive build-up of US naval forces in the region, including the repositioning of aircraft carriers.
- Nuclear Talks: Latest talks between the United States and Iranian officials on Tehran's atomic program ended inconclusively, with suggestions of more talks scheduled.
- Public Statements: Prior to the strike, a senior US official had described Iran as “the world’s number one sponsor of terror” and delivered threats regarding its missile program.
- Diplomatic Deadline: Allegedly, a time limit of roughly two weeks had been given to Iran to settle the nuclear dispute or confront serious repercussions.
Reaction from Tehran
Reacting to prior accusations, Iranian authorities had charged the US of spreading “big lies” about its missiles programme. Officials rejected claims about missile development and casualty figures as baseless.
These developments remains fast-moving, with additional reports expected as the situation develops.
