In the early hours of Saturday, reports emerged of major blasts shaking Tehran, amid claims from Israel that it had carried out a preventative strike.
Loud Blasts and Smoke Witnessed in Central Tehran
According to eyewitness accounts, two loud blasts were audible in Tehran on Saturday. Simultaneously, two plumes of dense smoke were seen billowing over the centre and east of the city.
“The type of explosions indicates that this is a strike involving missiles,” one news agency stated, though it did not immediately provide further details.
Context: Escalating Strains and Prior Developments
This event occurs against a background of sharply increased tensions in the region. Major developments preceding this attack involve:
- US Military Buildup: A significant build-up of American warships in the region, including the movement of aircraft carriers.
- Diplomatic Negotiations: Recent discussions between the US and Iranian officials on Tehran's atomic program ended inconclusively, with suggestions of further discussions planned.
- Public Statements: Before the attack, a senior US official had described Iran as “the world’s number one sponsor of terror” and delivered threats regarding its weapons development.
- Diplomatic Deadline: Allegedly, a deadline 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 prior accusations, Iranian officials had charged the US of spreading “big lies” about its missiles programme. Officials rejected assertions about weapons development and protest deaths as unfounded.
The situation remains fluid, with additional reports expected as the situation develops.
