Early Saturday morning, accounts surfaced of significant blasts shaking Tehran, following claims from Israel that it had conducted a preventative strike.
Loud Blasts and Plumes of Smoke Witnessed in Central Tehran
As per eyewitness accounts, two loud blasts were audible in Tehran on Saturday. Simultaneously, columns of thick smoke were observed billowing over central and eastern districts of the city.
“The type of these blasts indicates that this is a missile attack,” one news agency reported, without immediately provide additional information.
Background: Rising Strains and Recent Events
This event occurs against a backdrop of severely escalated strains in the Middle East. Major events preceding this strike involve:
- US Military Buildup: A significant build-up of American warships in the Middle East, including the movement of aircraft carriers.
- Nuclear Talks: Latest talks between the United States and Iran on Tehran's nuclear programme ended inconclusively, with indications of further discussions planned.
- Public Statements: Prior to the attack, a senior US official had labeled Iran as “the leading state sponsor of terrorism” and issued threats regarding its weapons development.
- Ultimatum: Allegedly, a time limit of 10 to 15 days had been presented to Iran to resolve the nuclear dispute or face serious repercussions.
Iranian Response
Reacting to earlier allegations, Iranian authorities had charged the US of spreading “big lies” about its missiles programme. They rejected assertions about weapons development and casualty figures as baseless.
The situation is fluid, with further updates anticipated as events unfold.
