Explosions were heard in Iran's capital, Tehran, on Saturday morning as Israel launched a preemptive attack—pushing the Middle East into a renewed military confrontation and further dimming hopes for a diplomatic solution. The United States also participated in the Israeli strikes, reported the news agency AP, citing an official.

 

The strikes reportedly took place near the offices of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Reuters reported that the 86-year-old leader was not in Tehran and had been transferred to a secure location at the time.

 

"The State of Israel has launched a preemptive strike against Iran. Defence Minister Israel Katz has declared a special and immediate state of emergency throughout the country," read a statement from Israel's Defence Ministry.

 

The development comes at a time of heightened strain between Iran and the United States over Tehran’s nuclear programme.

 

There was no immediate response from the Iranian government regarding the reported blast.

 

Sirens Sound Across Israel

Sirens were sounded across Israel at the same time. The Israeli military said that it had issued a "proactive alert to prepare the public for the possibility of missiles being launched toward the state of Israel," the news agency AP reported.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

 

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz described the attack as being done "to remove threats."

 

In Tehran, witnesses heard the blast. Iranian state television later reported on the explosion, without offering a cause.

 

Schools Across Israel Closed

Schools across Israel have been closed as a precautionary measure, and authorities have advised the public to work from home and have banned all public gatherings across the country.

 

Airspace Closed Amid Security Concerns

The Israel Airports Authority said the Transport Minister has ordered the closure of Israeli airspace to all civilian flights.

 

The decision has been taken as a precautionary measure.

 

What Happens to Talks?

The US and Iran renewed negotiations this month in a bid to resolve the decades-long dispute through diplomacy and avert the threat of a military confrontation that could destabilise the region. The talks are probably stalled now. (KNS)