Early Saturday morning, accounts surfaced of major blasts rocking Tehran, amid statements from Israel that it had carried out a preemptive strike.
Loud Blasts and Smoke Witnessed in Central Tehran
As per eyewitness accounts, two loud blasts were heard in Tehran on Saturday. Correspondingly, two plumes of thick smoke were seen rising over the centre and east of the Iranian capital.
“The type of these blasts indicates that this is a missile attack,” one news agency stated, without initially provide further details.
Background: Rising Strains and Prior Events
The incident occurs against a backdrop of sharply increased strains in the Middle East. Major developments leading up to this strike involve:
- American Naval Deployment: A massive build-up of US naval forces in the region, including the movement of aircraft carriers.
- Diplomatic Negotiations: Recent talks between the US and Iran on Tehran's atomic program concluded without a deal, with suggestions of more discussions scheduled.
- Public Statements: Before the attack, a senior US official had labeled Iran as “the world’s number one sponsor of terror” and delivered threats regarding its missile program.
- Ultimatum: Reportedly, a deadline of 10 to 15 days had been presented to Iran to resolve the nuclear dispute or face severe consequences.
Reaction from Tehran
Reacting to earlier allegations, Iranian authorities had accused the US of spreading “big lies” about its missiles programme. They dismissed claims about missile development and casualty figures as baseless.
The situation remains fluid, with additional reports expected as the situation develops.
