Explosions hit Tehran as US and Israeli strikes intensify in Iran, while Tehran retaliates with missile attacks on Israel, escalating the regional conflict into its second week.
Powerful explosions struck several locations across Tehran as the conflict between Iran, Israel and the United States entered its second week, raising fears of a wider regional war.
Large blasts and thick clouds of smoke were reported in the Iranian capital early Saturday following fresh waves of US-Israeli airstrikes. In response, Iran launched multiple missiles toward Israel, escalating tensions further across the Middle East.
Hours after the initial explosions, the Israeli military confirmed it had begun another round of strikes targeting sites in Tehran and the central city of Isfahan. The strikes are part of what Israel described as a broad military campaign aimed at key strategic facilities.
Reports from Tehran said continuous attacks had been heard since midnight. Areas around Mehrabad International Airport were reportedly hit, with nearby neighbourhoods also affected.
According to local reports, several cities across Iran have been targeted during the ongoing conflict. In addition to military installations and government facilities, residential areas, schools and hospitals were also reportedly damaged in some of the attacks.
The intensifying conflict has already resulted in significant casualties. Officials estimate that at least 1,230 people have been killed since the fighting began, with the number expected to rise as the conflict continues.
Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations, Amir-Saeid Iravani, accused the United States and Israel of targeting civilian areas during the attacks. Speaking at the United Nations Security Council, he described the strikes as acts that could amount to war crimes.
Meanwhile, the administration of US President Donald Trump has approved a new $151 million arms sale to Israel. Trump also stated that negotiations with Iran would not take place unless Tehran agreed to unconditional surrender.
The United Kingdom has also become indirectly involved in the conflict after allowing the US military to use its bases. A Rockwell B-1 Lancer bomber reportedly arrived at RAF Fairford following approval from British Prime Minister Keir Starmer for defensive US operations against Iranian missile sites.
At the same time, Iran has continued launching missiles toward Israel. Israeli authorities reported several explosions in Tel Aviv after ballistic missiles were fired overnight.
Analysts say the strategy behind the Iranian strikes is to keep Israeli civilians repeatedly seeking shelter, placing pressure on the Israeli government as the conflict continues to escalate.
Source : Al Jazeera
Image Source : Al Jazeera
