In the early hours of Saturday, reports emerged of significant explosions shaking Tehran, amid statements from Israel that it had conducted a preemptive strike.
Powerful Explosions and Plumes of Smoke Reported in Central Tehran
According to eyewitness accounts, two powerful explosions were heard in the city on Saturday. Simultaneously, columns of dense smoke were observed billowing over the centre and east of the Iranian capital.
“The nature of these blasts suggests that this is a missile attack,” one news agency reported, without immediately provide further details.
Background: Escalating Tensions and Prior Developments
This event occurs against a background of severely escalated strains in the Middle East. Major events preceding this attack include:
- US Military Buildup: A significant build-up of US naval forces in the region, including the movement of carrier strike groups.
- Nuclear Talks: Recent talks between the United States and Iran on Tehran's atomic program ended inconclusively, with indications of more talks planned.
- Public Statements: Before the strike, a senior US official had described Iran as “the world’s number one sponsor of terror” and issued warnings regarding its missile program.
- Diplomatic Deadline: Reportedly, a deadline of roughly two weeks had been presented to Iran to resolve the nuclear dispute or face severe consequences.
Iranian Response
In response to earlier allegations, Iranian authorities had accused the US of spreading “big lies” about its missiles programme. Officials rejected claims about weapons development and protest deaths as baseless.
These developments remains fast-moving, with further updates anticipated as the situation develops.
