Early Saturday morning, accounts surfaced of significant blasts shaking Tehran, amid statements from Israel that it had carried out a preventative strike.
Loud Blasts and Smoke Reported in Central Tehran
According to eyewitness accounts, two powerful explosions were audible in Tehran on Saturday morning. Correspondingly, columns of thick smoke were seen billowing over the centre and east of the city.
“The type of these blasts indicates that this is a strike involving missiles,” a media outlet reported, without immediately provide additional information.
Background: Escalating Strains and Recent Developments
The incident occurs against a background of sharply increased strains in the region. Major events preceding this attack involve:
- American Naval Deployment: A significant buildup of US naval forces in the region, including the movement of carrier strike groups.
- Diplomatic Negotiations: Recent talks between the United States and Iran on Tehran's atomic program concluded without a deal, with indications of more talks scheduled.
- Public Statements: Before the attack, a prominent American figure had described Iran as “the leading state sponsor of terrorism” and delivered warnings regarding its missile program.
- Ultimatum: Reportedly, a deadline of 10 to 15 days had been presented to Iran to settle the nuclear dispute or face serious repercussions.
Reaction from Tehran
Reacting to earlier allegations, Iranian authorities had charged the US of spreading “big lies” about its missiles programme. They dismissed assertions about missile development and casualty figures as unfounded.
These developments is fast-moving, with additional reports expected as events unfold.
