Early Saturday, reports emerged of major explosions shaking the Iranian capital, amid statements from Israeli officials that it had conducted a preemptive military action.
Loud Blasts and Smoke Reported in Central Tehran
According to eyewitness accounts, two powerful explosions were heard in Tehran on Saturday. Simultaneously, columns of dense smoke were observed billowing over the centre and east of the Iranian capital.
“The type of explosions suggests that this is a strike involving missiles,” one news agency reported, though it did not initially offer further details.
Background: Rising Tensions and Recent Events
This event occurs against a background of severely escalated tensions in the Middle East. Major events leading up to this strike include:
- American Naval Deployment: A significant build-up of US naval forces in the Middle East, including the repositioning of aircraft carriers.
- Diplomatic Negotiations: Recent discussions between the US and Iran on Tehran's atomic program ended inconclusively, with suggestions of more discussions scheduled.
- Official Rhetoric: Before the strike, a senior US official had described Iran as “the leading state sponsor of terrorism” and issued threats regarding its missile program.
- Diplomatic Deadline: Reportedly, a time limit of roughly two weeks had been given to Iran to resolve 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. They dismissed claims about missile development and protest deaths as unfounded.
The situation is fluid, with further updates expected as events unfold.
