In the early hours of Saturday morning, accounts surfaced of significant explosions shaking the Iranian capital, following statements from Israel that it had carried out a preemptive strike.
Powerful Explosions and Smoke Witnessed in Central Tehran
According to eyewitness accounts, two powerful explosions were heard in the city on Saturday morning. Simultaneously, columns of thick smoke were seen billowing over central and eastern districts of the Iranian capital.
“The nature of these blasts indicates that this is a strike involving missiles,” one news agency reported, though it did not immediately provide additional information.
Context: Rising Tensions and Prior Events
This event takes place against a backdrop of severely escalated strains in the region. Key developments preceding this strike include:
- American Naval Deployment: A significant buildup of US naval forces in the region, including the movement of carrier strike groups.
- Nuclear Talks: Latest talks between the United States and Iranian officials on Tehran's nuclear programme ended inconclusively, with indications of more talks scheduled.
- Official Rhetoric: Before the attack, a senior US official had described Iran as “the leading state sponsor of terrorism” and issued threats regarding its weapons development.
- Diplomatic Deadline: Reportedly, a time limit of 10 to 15 days had been presented to Iran to resolve the atomic standoff or confront serious repercussions.
Iranian Response
Reacting to earlier allegations, Iranian authorities had accused the US of spreading “big lies” about its missiles programme. Officials rejected claims about weapons development and casualty figures as unfounded.
The situation is fast-moving, with further updates anticipated as the situation develops.
