Early Saturday morning, reports emerged of major explosions rocking Tehran, amid claims from Israeli officials that it had conducted a preemptive strike.
Loud Blasts and Smoke Reported in Central Tehran
According to eyewitness accounts, two powerful explosions were audible in the city on Saturday morning. Correspondingly, two plumes of dense smoke were seen rising over central and eastern districts of the city.
“The nature of these blasts indicates that this is a missile attack,” one news agency reported, though it did not immediately provide further details.
Context: Rising Tensions and Prior Events
The incident takes place against a background of severely escalated strains in the Middle East. Key developments leading up to this attack include:
- American Naval Deployment: A significant build-up of American warships in the Middle East, featuring the movement of carrier strike groups.
- Nuclear Talks: Recent discussions between the United States and Iran on Tehran's atomic program ended inconclusively, with suggestions of further discussions scheduled.
- Public Statements: Prior to the strike, a senior US official had described Iran as “the leading state sponsor of terrorism” and delivered threats regarding its missile program.
- Ultimatum: Reportedly, a time limit of 10 to 15 days had been given to Iran to resolve the atomic standoff or confront serious repercussions.
Iranian Response
Reacting to earlier allegations, Iranian officials had charged the US of spreading “falsehoods” about its missiles programme. Officials rejected claims about missile development and protest deaths as baseless.
The situation is fast-moving, with additional reports expected as events unfold.
