Nationwide state of emergency declared as explosions rock multiple cities
Israel Katz said Saturday that Israel carried out a “pre-emptive strike” on Iran, citing serious national security threats
Katz declared a nationwide state of emergency and urged citizens to follow instructions from the Home Front Command
“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,” a ministry statement said
Explosions Reported in Tehran and Other Cities
Witnesses reported a powerful explosion in downtown Tehran, with thick smoke seen rising over the area. Iranian authorities had not immediately issued an official response
According to Fars News Agency, explosions were also heard in:
Isfahan,Qom,Karaj,Kermanshah
The Israeli military activated air raid sirens as a precaution, warning of possible missile retaliation. It also announced a prohibition on educational activities, public gatherings, and most workplaces, with essential sectors exempted
U.S. Reportedly Involved
Officials in the United States told Reuters that Washington is participating in the operation, though the full extent of its involvement remains unclear. One official said the strikes were carried out by air and sea
The developments come amid heightened tensions surrounding Iran’s nuclear programme and ongoing diplomatic contacts between Tehran and Washington
Targeting Iranian Leadership
One of the first reported strikes targeted an area near the offices of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei
It was not immediately confirmed whether Khamenei, 86, was present at the time. A source cited by Reuters said he had been moved to a secure location outside Tehran
Initial strikes reportedly killed and wounded numerous members of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps, including key operational personnel, according to Islamic Republic News Agency
Both Israel and Iran announced the closure of their airspace following the attacks
Source: TRT WORLD
