🔗 Share this article Israel Strikes Iran as Blasts Heard in the Capital In the early hours of Saturday, reports emerged of major blasts shaking Tehran, following statements from Israel that it had conducted a preemptive strike. Loud Blasts and Smoke Witnessed in Central Tehran According to on-the-ground reports, two powerful explosions were audible in the city on Saturday morning. Simultaneously, columns of thick smoke were seen billowing over the centre and east of the Iranian capital. “The type of these blasts indicates that this is a missile attack,” one news agency reported, though it did not initially offer further details. Background: Rising Tensions and Prior Events This event occurs against a background of severely escalated tensions in the Middle East. Major events leading up to this attack involve: US Military Buildup: A massive build-up of US naval forces in the region, including the movement of carrier strike groups. Nuclear Talks: Recent talks between the US and Iran on Tehran's nuclear programme concluded without a deal, with indications of more talks scheduled. Official Rhetoric: Before the strike, a prominent American figure had described Iran as “the world’s number one sponsor of terror” and issued warnings regarding its missile program. Ultimatum: Reportedly, a time limit of roughly two weeks had been presented to Iran to resolve the atomic standoff or face serious repercussions. An American warship stationed in the region earlier this month. Photograph: US Navy Iranian Response Reacting to prior accusations, Iranian authorities had charged the United States of spreading “falsehoods” about its defensive capabilities. They rejected assertions about missile development and protest deaths as unfounded. These developments is fluid, with further updates anticipated as events unfold.