By Desmond Nleya
TEHRAN – Israel has launched missile strikes on Iran’s capital, Tehran, triggering explosions and raising fears of a major regional escalation, according to Israeli and Iranian sources.
Explosions were heard in western parts of Tehran early Saturday, with Iranian state-linked Fars News Agency reporting that missiles struck areas along University Street and the Jomhouri district. Witnesses and journalists in the city confirmed hearing at least two powerful blasts.
Israel’s defence minister confirmed that Israeli forces carried out the attack, marking a dramatic escalation in tensions between the long-standing regional adversaries.
In anticipation of retaliation, the Israeli military sounded air raid sirens across the country and ordered residents to remain close to protected areas. Authorities also imposed emergency measures nationwide, including the closure of schools, suspension of public gatherings, and restrictions on non-essential workplaces.
The Israeli military said the measures were intended to prepare the population for the possibility of incoming missile fire from Iran or allied forces.
The extent of the damage in Tehran and whether there were casualties was not immediately clear. Iranian authorities have not yet released an official casualty report.
The strikes come amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, with fears that direct military confrontation between Israel and Iran could trigger a wider regional conflict involving allied armed groups.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
