In the early hours of Saturday, accounts surfaced of major blasts rocking Tehran, amid statements from Israel that it had carried out a preemptive strike.
Powerful Explosions and Plumes of Smoke Reported in Central Tehran
According to eyewitness accounts, two powerful explosions were audible in Tehran on Saturday. Correspondingly, two plumes of thick smoke were observed billowing over the centre and east of the Iranian capital.
“The nature of explosions indicates that this is a strike involving missiles,” one news agency reported, without initially provide further details.
Background: Rising Strains and Recent Events
The incident takes place against a background of severely escalated tensions in the Middle East. Key developments preceding this strike involve:
- American Naval Deployment: A massive build-up of US naval forces in the Middle East, including the repositioning of carrier strike groups.
- Diplomatic Negotiations: Latest talks between the United States and Iranian officials on Tehran's atomic program concluded without a deal, with indications of more discussions scheduled.
- Public Statements: Before the strike, a prominent American figure had described Iran as “the leading state sponsor of terrorism” and delivered warnings regarding its missile program.
- Diplomatic Deadline: Reportedly, a time limit of 10 to 15 days had been presented to Iran to settle the nuclear dispute or face serious repercussions.
Reaction from Tehran
Reacting to prior accusations, Iranian authorities had charged the United States of spreading “big lies” about its missiles programme. Officials dismissed claims about missile development and casualty figures as unfounded.
These developments is fluid, with additional reports expected as events unfold.
