In the early hours of Saturday morning, reports emerged of major explosions shaking Tehran, amid claims from Israeli officials that it had carried out a preemptive military action.
Powerful Explosions and Plumes of Smoke Reported in Central Tehran
According to on-the-ground reports, two powerful explosions were heard in Tehran on Saturday. Simultaneously, two plumes of thick smoke were observed rising over central and eastern districts of the Iranian capital.
“The nature of explosions suggests that this is a strike involving missiles,” one news agency reported, without immediately provide additional information.
Background: Escalating Tensions and Prior Events
The incident takes place against a background of severely escalated tensions in the Middle East. Key events leading up to this attack include:
- US Military Buildup: A significant buildup of US naval forces in the Middle East, featuring the movement of carrier strike groups.
- Diplomatic Negotiations: Latest talks between the United States and Iran on Tehran's atomic program ended inconclusively, with indications of more talks scheduled.
- Public Statements: Prior to the attack, a senior US official had described Iran as “the world’s number one sponsor of terror” and delivered warnings regarding its missile program.
- Ultimatum: Reportedly, a deadline of roughly two weeks had been presented to Iran to resolve the nuclear dispute or face serious repercussions.
Iranian Response
In response to prior accusations, Iranian officials had accused the US of spreading “falsehoods” about its missiles programme. They dismissed claims about missile development and protest deaths as baseless.
The situation is fluid, with additional reports expected as events unfold.
