Early Saturday morning, reports emerged of major explosions shaking the Iranian capital, following statements from Israel that it had carried out a preventative military action.
Powerful Explosions and Plumes of Smoke Reported in Central Tehran
According to eyewitness accounts, two powerful explosions were audible in the city on Saturday. Correspondingly, two plumes of thick smoke were seen rising over the centre and east of the city.
“The type of explosions suggests that this is a missile attack,” one news agency reported, without initially provide further details.
Context: Escalating Tensions and Recent Developments
This event takes place against a background of severely escalated strains in the Middle East. Key developments leading up to this attack include:
- American Naval Deployment: A massive build-up of American warships in the region, including the movement of carrier strike groups.
- Nuclear Talks: Recent talks between the United States and Iran on Tehran's atomic program ended inconclusively, with indications of further discussions scheduled.
- Public Statements: Before the strike, a senior US official had described Iran as “the leading state sponsor of terrorism” and issued threats regarding its missile program.
- Diplomatic Deadline: Allegedly, a time limit of 10 to 15 days had been presented to Iran to settle the nuclear dispute or face severe consequences.
Iranian Response
Reacting to earlier allegations, Iranian authorities had charged the US of spreading “big lies” about its missiles programme. They rejected assertions about missile development and casualty figures as unfounded.
These developments remains fluid, with additional reports anticipated as the situation develops.
