In the early hours of Saturday, reports emerged of major explosions shaking Tehran, amid statements from Israeli officials that it had carried out a preventative strike.
Loud Blasts and Smoke Reported in Central Tehran
As per eyewitness accounts, two loud blasts were heard in the city on Saturday. Correspondingly, two plumes of thick smoke were seen billowing over the centre and east of the city.
“The type of explosions suggests that this is a strike involving missiles,” one news agency reported, without immediately offer further details.
Background: Rising Strains and Prior Developments
This event occurs against a backdrop of severely escalated tensions in the region. Key events leading up to this strike involve:
- American Naval Deployment: A significant build-up of American warships in the region, featuring the repositioning of carrier strike groups.
- Diplomatic Negotiations: Latest talks between the United States and Iran on Tehran's nuclear programme concluded without a deal, with indications of more discussions scheduled.
- Official Rhetoric: Before the strike, a senior US official had described Iran as “the leading state sponsor of terrorism” and delivered warnings regarding its weapons development.
- Ultimatum: Allegedly, a time limit of 10 to 15 days had been given to Iran to settle the nuclear dispute or confront serious repercussions.
Iranian Response
Reacting to earlier allegations, Iranian officials had accused the US of spreading “falsehoods” about its missiles programme. They dismissed claims about weapons development and protest deaths as baseless.
These developments remains fast-moving, with additional reports expected as events unfold.
