In the early hours of Saturday morning, reports emerged of significant blasts rocking Tehran, following claims from Israel that it had carried out a preemptive strike.
Loud Blasts and Plumes of Smoke Witnessed in Central Tehran
According to eyewitness accounts, two powerful explosions were audible in Tehran on Saturday morning. Correspondingly, columns of thick smoke were observed rising over the centre and east of the city.
“The type of explosions indicates that this is a strike involving missiles,” one news agency stated, without immediately provide additional information.
Context: Escalating Strains and Recent Events
The incident takes place against a background of severely escalated tensions in the region. Major developments preceding this attack involve:
- US Military Buildup: A massive buildup of US naval forces in the region, including the repositioning of carrier strike groups.
- Diplomatic Negotiations: Latest discussions between the United States and Iran on Tehran's nuclear programme ended inconclusively, with suggestions of further talks scheduled.
- Public Statements: Before the strike, a senior US official had labeled Iran as “the leading state sponsor of terrorism” and delivered threats regarding its missile program.
- Diplomatic Deadline: Allegedly, a time limit of 10 to 15 days had been given to Iran to settle the nuclear dispute or face serious repercussions.
Reaction from Tehran
Reacting to earlier allegations, Iranian authorities had charged the US of spreading “big lies” about its defensive capabilities. They rejected claims about weapons development and protest deaths as unfounded.
The situation is fast-moving, with further updates anticipated as the situation develops.
