🔗 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 shaking Tehran, amid claims from Israel that it had carried out a preventative military action. Powerful Explosions and Smoke Witnessed in Central Tehran According to on-the-ground reports, two powerful explosions were heard in Tehran on Saturday morning. Correspondingly, two plumes of thick smoke were seen rising over the centre and east of the Iranian capital. “The type of these blasts indicates that this is a missile attack,” a media outlet stated, though it did not immediately offer further details. Context: Rising Tensions and Prior Events This event occurs against a backdrop of sharply increased strains in the region. Key events leading up to this strike involve: US Military Buildup: A massive build-up of US naval forces in the region, including the movement of carrier strike groups. Nuclear Talks: Latest talks between the US and Iranian officials on Tehran's atomic program ended inconclusively, with suggestions of more talks planned. Public Statements: Before the strike, a prominent American figure had described Iran as “the world’s number one sponsor of terror” and issued warnings regarding its weapons development. Ultimatum: Reportedly, a deadline of roughly two weeks had been presented to Iran to resolve the nuclear dispute or face serious repercussions. A US aircraft carrier deployed in the region recently. Photograph: Official Source Iranian Response Reacting to prior accusations, Iranian authorities had charged the United States of spreading “big lies” about its missiles programme. They dismissed claims about missile development and casualty figures as unfounded. These developments is fluid, with additional reports anticipated as events unfold.