In the early hours of Saturday, reports emerged of significant blasts rocking Tehran, following claims from Israel that it had carried out a preventative strike.
Loud Blasts and Plumes of Smoke Reported in Central Tehran
According to eyewitness accounts, two powerful explosions were heard in the city on Saturday morning. Correspondingly, two plumes of thick smoke were observed rising over the centre and east of the city.
“The type of explosions indicates that this is a missile attack,” one news agency stated, though it did not immediately provide additional information.
Context: Rising Strains and Prior Developments
This event takes place against a background of sharply increased strains in the region. Key developments leading up to this attack include:
- US Military Buildup: A massive build-up of American warships in the region, featuring the repositioning of carrier strike groups.
- Diplomatic Negotiations: Latest discussions between the United States and Iranian officials on Tehran's nuclear programme concluded without a deal, with indications of more talks scheduled.
- Public Statements: Before the strike, a senior US official had described Iran as “the leading state sponsor of terrorism” and issued threats regarding its weapons development.
- Diplomatic Deadline: Allegedly, a time limit of 10 to 15 days had been given to Iran to settle the atomic standoff or confront serious repercussions.
Iranian Response
In response to prior accusations, Iranian authorities had charged the US of spreading “big lies” about its missiles programme. They rejected claims about weapons development and protest deaths as baseless.
These developments is fluid, with further updates anticipated as events unfold.
