In the early hours of Saturday, accounts surfaced of major explosions shaking the Iranian capital, amid claims from Israel that it had conducted a preemptive strike.
Loud Blasts and Smoke Reported in Central Tehran
According to eyewitness accounts, two loud blasts were heard in the city on Saturday morning. Correspondingly, columns of thick smoke were seen billowing over the centre and east of the city.
“The type of explosions indicates that this is a strike involving missiles,” a media outlet stated, without initially provide further details.
Background: Rising Tensions and Recent Developments
The incident takes place against a background of sharply increased tensions in the Middle East. Major developments preceding this attack involve:
- US Military Buildup: A significant buildup of American warships in the region, featuring the movement of aircraft carriers.
- Nuclear Talks: Latest talks between the US and Iran on Tehran's nuclear programme concluded without a deal, with suggestions of more discussions scheduled.
- Public Statements: Before the strike, a prominent American figure had labeled Iran as “the world’s number one sponsor of terror” and delivered warnings regarding its weapons development.
- Diplomatic Deadline: Reportedly, a time limit of 10 to 15 days had been presented to Iran to settle the nuclear dispute or confront serious repercussions.
Iranian Response
Reacting to prior accusations, Iranian authorities had accused the US of spreading “big lies” about its defensive capabilities. Officials rejected assertions about missile development and protest deaths as baseless.
The situation remains fluid, with further updates anticipated as the situation develops.
