Israel Launches Strikes on Iran as Explosions Rock Tehran; Air Defences on Full Alert

Report by “Safarti Tarjuman” International News Desk

The Israeli Air Force launched a wave of airstrikes across Iran early Friday morning, with blasts reported northeast of Tehran and in multiple provinces. Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed the attacks, calling them a direct counterstrike and marking the start of a broader operation.

Residents in northeastern Tehran were awakened by a series of powerful explosions just before dawn. Iranian state media confirmed the blasts and reported that several residential areas had sustained damage, with fires breaking out in some neighborhoods. Footage circulating online showed large plumes of smoke rising from several sites. Nour News, affiliated with Iran’s security apparatus, reported that air defence systems were fully operational and responding to incoming threats.

According to Iranian media, several residential areas in the capital sustained damage, with fires reported. In response, Iran has suspended all flights at Imam Khomeini International Airport, and emergency response units have been deployed.

The Israeli military has announced the completion of the first phase of its operation. A senior Israeli official told Reuters that dozens of strategic sites across Iran were targeted. Reports suggest the strikes focused on suspected nuclear-related infrastructure and military facilities.

Israel has long accused Iran of accelerating its nuclear program, with Israeli intelligence sources now claiming Iran has enough fissile material to produce up to 15 nuclear weapons “within days.”

As the strikes began, U.S. President Donald Trump was seen at the White House mingling with lawmakers, though sources say Washington was informed in advance. According to Axios, the Trump administration had privately informed Israel that the U.S. would not directly participate in the operation.

In a precautionary move, Israel has closed its airspace to all flights, both incoming and outgoing, until further notice.

Meanwhile, European leaders have called for an emergency session of the UN Security Council, urging restraint and de-escalation to avoid a wider regional conflict.

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