Explosions struck Tehran early Saturday after Israel launched what it called a preemptive operation, sharply escalating tensions across the Middle East. The Associated Press reported, citing an official, that the United States also took part in the strikes.

The reported targets included areas near offices linked to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. However, Reuters said the 86-year-old leader had been moved from Tehran to a secure location before the attack. Witnesses reported at least three to four explosions across the capital. There was no immediate confirmation of casualties or damage.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said the action was aimed at “removing threats,” reiterating Israel’s resolve to prevent Iran from developing what it considers existential military capabilities.

Within minutes, sirens sounded across Tel Aviv and other Israeli cities amid warnings of possible retaliatory missile fire. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) issued nationwide alerts directing civilians to remain close to shelters. Hospitals activated emergency protocols, shifting patients and surgeries to fortified underground facilities.

Both Iran and Israel closed their airspace shortly after the strikes, signalling fears of rapid escalation.

The attack comes amid renewed friction over Tehran’s nuclear programme. Washington and Tel Aviv have repeatedly warned that military options remain available if Iran advances its nuclear and ballistic missile activities. Although the United States and Iran recently resumed negotiations, Israel has insisted any deal must dismantle Iran’s nuclear infrastructure and curb its missile programme — conditions Tehran rejects.

Hours before the operation, US President Donald Trump voiced dissatisfaction with nuclear talks, reiterating that Iran “cannot have nuclear weapons.” With diplomacy faltering and both sides on high alert, the region now faces the prospect of a wider and prolonged confrontation.

Explosions struck Tehran early Saturday after Israel launched what it called a preemptive operation, sharply escalating tensions across the Middle East. The Associated Press reported, citing an official, that the United States also took part in the strikes.

The reported targets included areas near offices linked to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. However, Reuters said the 86-year-old leader had been moved from Tehran to a secure location before the attack. Witnesses reported at least three to four explosions across the capital. There was no immediate confirmation of casualties or damage.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said the action was aimed at “removing threats,” reiterating Israel’s resolve to prevent Iran from developing what it considers existential military capabilities.

Within minutes, sirens sounded across Tel Aviv and other Israeli cities amid warnings of possible retaliatory missile fire. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) issued nationwide alerts directing civilians to remain close to shelters. Hospitals activated emergency protocols, shifting patients and surgeries to fortified underground facilities.

Both Iran and Israel closed their airspace shortly after the strikes, signalling fears of rapid escalation.

The attack comes amid renewed friction over Tehran’s nuclear programme. Washington and Tel Aviv have repeatedly warned that military options remain available if Iran advances its nuclear and ballistic missile activities. Although the United States and Iran recently resumed negotiations, Israel has insisted any deal must dismantle Iran’s nuclear infrastructure and curb its missile programme — conditions Tehran rejects.

Hours before the operation, US President Donald Trump voiced dissatisfaction with nuclear talks, reiterating that Iran “cannot have nuclear weapons.” With diplomacy faltering and both sides on high alert, the region now faces the prospect of a wider and prolonged confrontation.