In the early hours of Saturday morning, accounts surfaced of major blasts shaking Tehran, amid statements from Israel that it had carried out a preemptive strike.
Powerful Explosions and Plumes of Smoke Reported in the Heart of Tehran
According to eyewitness accounts, two powerful explosions were heard in the city on Saturday morning. Simultaneously, columns of thick smoke were observed rising over the centre and east of the city.
“The type of these blasts suggests that this is a strike involving missiles,” a media outlet reported, without immediately provide additional information.
Context: Escalating Tensions and Recent Events
The incident takes place against a backdrop of severely escalated tensions in the region. Key developments leading up to this strike involve:
- US Military Buildup: A significant buildup of American warships in the region, including the repositioning of carrier strike groups.
- Nuclear Talks: Recent discussions between the United States and Iranian officials on Tehran's atomic program ended inconclusively, with indications of further discussions scheduled.
- Public Statements: Before the strike, a senior US official had described Iran as “the leading state sponsor of terrorism” and delivered warnings regarding its missile program.
- Ultimatum: Reportedly, a deadline of 10 to 15 days had been given to Iran to settle the nuclear dispute or confront severe consequences.
Iranian Response
Reacting to prior accusations, Iranian officials had accused the United States of spreading “big lies” about its missiles programme. Officials dismissed claims about missile development and protest deaths as baseless.
These developments is fast-moving, with further updates anticipated as the situation develops.
