Tensions in the Middle East escalated sharply on Saturday after Israel confirmed it had carried out what it described as a “preventative” military strike against Iran, with explosions reported in the Iranian capital, Tehran.
Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, announced the operation in the early hours of Saturday, saying the action was taken to neutralise what Israeli authorities characterised as imminent threats to the country’s national security.
The strike represents one of the most significant confrontations between the two nations in recent years and has heightened fears of a broader regional conflict.
According to Israeli officials, the attack was conducted on Iranian territory and was based on intelligence assessments suggesting an impending missile or drone assault on Israel. The Defence Ministry said the operation was aimed at “removing threats to the State of Israel.”
Following the announcement, Israeli authorities declared a nationwide state of emergency. Citizens were urged to remain close to bomb shelters and strictly adhere to instructions issued by civil defence agencies.
Air raid sirens sounded across the country as emergency alerts were sent to mobile phones, warning of potential retaliatory action. The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) moved the country to what it termed an “essential activity” status, suspending schools, public gatherings, and other non-critical services.
Meanwhile, Iranian state and local media reported multiple explosions in Tehran, including in central areas of the city. Plumes of smoke were seen rising over parts of the capital, although there was no immediate confirmation regarding specific targets or possible casualties.
Unconfirmed reports suggested that the United States may have supported or coordinated aspects of the operation by deploying military assets to the region. However, official confirmation from Washington remained limited as of press time.
The development comes amid renewed diplomatic engagements between the United States and Iran earlier this month aimed at addressing Tehran’s nuclear programme and reducing the risk of military confrontation. Israel has consistently maintained that any diplomatic agreement must impose stringent limits on Iran’s missile capabilities.
Analysts warn that the latest military action could further complicate ongoing negotiations and deepen instability across the region.
