Early Saturday, reports emerged of major explosions shaking the Iranian capital, following statements from Israeli officials that it had conducted a preemptive strike.
Loud Blasts and Plumes of Smoke Witnessed in Central Tehran
According to eyewitness accounts, two powerful explosions were heard in the city on Saturday. Simultaneously, two plumes of thick smoke were seen rising 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, though it did not immediately offer further details.
Background: Rising Strains and Prior Developments
This event takes place against a backdrop of sharply increased strains in the Middle East. Major developments leading up to this strike include:
- US Military Buildup: A massive buildup of US naval forces in the region, featuring the movement of aircraft carriers.
- Diplomatic Negotiations: Recent talks between the US and Iranian officials on Tehran's atomic program ended inconclusively, with suggestions of further discussions scheduled.
- Public Statements: Before the strike, a prominent American figure had described Iran as “the world’s number one sponsor of terror” and issued warnings regarding its weapons development.
- Diplomatic Deadline: Reportedly, a time limit of 10 to 15 days had been presented to Iran to settle the atomic standoff or confront severe consequences.
Reaction from Tehran
In response to earlier allegations, Iranian officials had accused the US of spreading “big lies” about its missiles programme. They rejected claims about weapons development and casualty figures as unfounded.
These developments remains fast-moving, with additional reports anticipated as events unfold.
