🔗 Share this article Israel Launches Assault on Iran as Blasts Heard in the Capital In the early hours of Saturday morning, accounts surfaced of major blasts rocking Tehran, amid statements from Israeli officials that it had carried out a preemptive strike. Loud Blasts and Plumes of Smoke Reported in the Heart of Tehran According to on-the-ground reports, two loud blasts were heard in Tehran on Saturday morning. Correspondingly, two plumes of dense smoke were seen billowing over the centre and east of the city. “The nature of these blasts suggests that this is a missile attack,” one news agency reported, though it did not initially offer additional information. Context: Escalating Tensions and Prior Events The incident occurs against a background of sharply increased tensions in the Middle East. Key events leading up to this strike involve: American Naval Deployment: A massive build-up of American warships in the Middle East, featuring the movement of carrier strike groups. Nuclear Talks: Latest discussions between the United States and Iranian officials on Tehran's atomic program concluded without a deal, with indications of more talks planned. Official Rhetoric: Before the strike, a prominent American figure had described Iran as “the world’s number one sponsor of terror” and delivered threats regarding its missile program. Ultimatum: Reportedly, a time limit of 10 to 15 days had been given to Iran to resolve the atomic standoff or face severe consequences. A US aircraft carrier stationed in the region earlier this month. Photograph: US Navy Iranian Response Reacting to prior accusations, Iranian officials had charged the United States of spreading “falsehoods” about its missiles programme. Officials rejected assertions about weapons development and protest deaths as baseless. The situation is fast-moving, with further updates expected as events unfold.