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In the early hours of Saturday morning, reports emerged of significant explosions shaking Tehran, amid statements from Israeli officials that it had carried out a preemptive strike.

Loud Blasts and Smoke Reported in the Heart of Tehran

According to eyewitness accounts, two loud blasts were audible in Tehran on Saturday morning. Simultaneously, columns of thick smoke were seen rising over the centre and east of the Iranian capital.

“The nature of explosions suggests that this is a missile attack,” a media outlet stated, without immediately provide further details.

Context: Rising Strains and Recent Developments

This event takes place against a background of sharply increased strains in the Middle East. Key events preceding this attack involve:

• US Military Buildup: A massive buildup of US naval forces in the region, including the movement of carrier strike groups.
• Diplomatic Negotiations: Recent discussions between the US and Iranian officials on Tehran's nuclear programme concluded without a deal, with indications of further discussions planned.
• Public Statements: Prior to the attack, a senior US official had labeled Iran as “the world’s number one sponsor of terror” and issued warnings regarding its missile program.
• Diplomatic Deadline: Allegedly, a time limit of roughly two weeks had been given to Iran to settle the nuclear dispute or face severe consequences.

Iranian Response

Reacting to earlier allegations, Iranian authorities had accused the United States of spreading “big lies” about its missiles programme. Officials rejected assertions about missile development and protest deaths as baseless.

The situation is fast-moving, with further updates anticipated as the situation develops.