In the early hours of Saturday, accounts surfaced of major blasts shaking the Iranian capital, following statements from Israel that it had carried out a preemptive military action.
Powerful Explosions and Plumes of Smoke Reported in Central Tehran
As per eyewitness accounts, two loud blasts were audible in the city on Saturday morning. Correspondingly, two plumes of dense smoke were seen billowing over central and eastern districts of the city.
“The nature of explosions indicates that this is a strike involving missiles,” one news agency reported, without initially offer further details.
Background: Escalating Tensions and Prior Events
This event occurs against a background of sharply increased tensions in the region. Major developments preceding this attack involve:
- US Military Buildup: A significant buildup of American warships in the region, including the movement of aircraft carriers.
- Nuclear Talks: Recent talks between the US and Iran on Tehran's atomic program ended inconclusively, with suggestions of further talks scheduled.
- Public Statements: Prior to the strike, a senior US official had labeled Iran as “the world’s number one sponsor of terror” and delivered warnings regarding its missile program.
- Diplomatic Deadline: Reportedly, a time limit of 10 to 15 days had been given to Iran to settle the atomic standoff or face severe consequences.
Iranian Response
In response to prior accusations, Iranian authorities had charged the United States of spreading “falsehoods” about its missiles programme. They dismissed assertions about missile development and casualty figures as baseless.
These developments remains fast-moving, with additional reports anticipated as the situation develops.
