In the early hours of Saturday, accounts surfaced of major blasts shaking Tehran, following statements from Israel that it had carried out a preemptive military action.
Loud Blasts and Smoke Witnessed in Central Tehran
As per on-the-ground reports, two loud blasts were audible in the city on Saturday. Simultaneously, two plumes of thick smoke were seen billowing over central and eastern districts of the city.
“The nature of explosions suggests that this is a missile attack,” one news agency stated, without immediately offer further details.
Context: Escalating Strains and Prior Events
The incident takes place against a backdrop of sharply increased tensions in the region. Major developments preceding this attack include:
- American Naval Deployment: A significant buildup of American warships in the Middle East, featuring the repositioning of aircraft carriers.
- Nuclear Talks: Recent talks between the United States and Iranian officials on Tehran's nuclear programme concluded without a deal, with indications 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.
- Ultimatum: Allegedly, a time limit of 10 to 15 days had been presented to Iran to settle the atomic standoff or confront serious repercussions.
Iranian Response
In response to earlier allegations, Iranian authorities had charged the US of spreading “big lies” about its missiles programme. They rejected assertions about weapons development and protest deaths as unfounded.
These developments is fast-moving, with additional reports expected as events unfold.
