In the early hours of Saturday, accounts surfaced of major blasts shaking Tehran, amid claims from Israeli officials that it had carried out a preemptive strike.
Loud Blasts and Smoke Witnessed in the Heart of Tehran
According to on-the-ground reports, two powerful explosions were heard in the city on Saturday. Correspondingly, columns of thick smoke were observed rising over the centre and east of the city.
“The nature of these blasts indicates that this is a strike involving missiles,” one news agency reported, without immediately offer additional information.
Context: Escalating Tensions and Prior Developments
This event takes place against a backdrop of sharply increased tensions in the region. Key events preceding this strike include:
- US Military Buildup: A significant build-up of American warships in the region, including the movement of carrier strike groups.
- Nuclear Talks: Latest discussions between the United States and Iranian officials on Tehran's nuclear programme concluded without a deal, with suggestions of further discussions 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 missile program.
- Ultimatum: Reportedly, a deadline of 10 to 15 days had been presented to Iran to resolve the atomic standoff or confront severe consequences.
Iranian Response
In response to prior accusations, Iranian authorities had accused the United States of spreading “big lies” about its missiles programme. They rejected assertions about weapons development and casualty figures as unfounded.
These developments remains fast-moving, with further updates expected as the situation develops.