In the early hours of Saturday, accounts surfaced of significant explosions rocking Tehran, following claims from Israel that it had carried out a preventative strike.
Loud Blasts and Plumes of Smoke Witnessed in Central Tehran
As per eyewitness accounts, two powerful explosions were audible in Tehran on Saturday morning. Correspondingly, two plumes of dense smoke were seen rising over central and eastern districts of the Iranian capital.
“The type of explosions suggests that this is a strike involving missiles,” one news agency stated, without immediately offer further details.
Background: Rising Strains and Prior Events
The incident occurs against a background of sharply increased tensions in the region. Key developments preceding this strike include:
- US Military Buildup: A massive build-up of American warships in the Middle East, featuring the movement of carrier strike groups.
- Nuclear Talks: Recent talks between the United States and Iran on Tehran's atomic program concluded without a deal, with suggestions of further discussions scheduled.
- Official Rhetoric: Before the strike, a senior US official had described Iran as “the world’s number one sponsor of terror” and delivered threats regarding its weapons development.
- Ultimatum: Allegedly, a time limit of 10 to 15 days had been given to Iran to resolve the atomic standoff or face serious repercussions.
Iranian Response
Reacting to prior accusations, Iranian authorities had charged the United States of spreading “falsehoods” about its missiles programme. They rejected assertions about missile development and casualty figures as baseless.
The situation is fast-moving, with further updates expected as the situation develops.
