Web desk: Loud blasts shook Tehran on Saturday as Israel launched airstrikes on Iranian territory. Witnesses in northern Tehran said explosions rattled buildings and windows. Residents reported panic and confusion.
Airstrikes struck central Tehran, focusing on Pasteur Street, which houses the presidency and national security offices. Additional impacts were reported near the Supreme Leader’s residence and the Assembly of Experts.
Israel carried out what it described as a “preemptive strike” against Iran on Saturday morning, according to Defense Minister Israel Katz, prompting the government to declare a state of emergency nationwide in anticipation of potential Iranian retaliation with drones and ballistic missiles.
The attack comes amid rising tensions between Israel and Iran. Both countries have a history of military and proxy confrontations. The blasts in Tehran mark the most serious incident in months. The situation could affect regional stability.
Trump says the US has begun “major combat operations” in Iran after Israel said it had launched missile attacks against the country. U.S. involvement was confirmed by American officials, amid long-standing tensions over Iran’s nuclear program and support for groups like Hezbollah and the Houthis; Iranian accounts described the strikes as unprovoked, with no casualties confirmed yet and fears of wider conflict growing.
More to follow
