The operation, announced by Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, was said to be aimed at countering imminent threats to Israel’s national security.
A major escalation unfolded in the Middle East early Saturday as Israel carried out what it described as a “preventative” military strike against Iran, heightening fears of a broader regional conflict.
The operation, announced by Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, was said to be aimed at countering imminent threats to Israel’s national security.
Israeli authorities stated that the pre-emptive strike targeted locations within Iranian territory in the early hours of the day.
Following the operation, Katz declared a nationwide state of emergency, directing residents to remain near protective shelters and adhere strictly to instructions from civil defence authorities.
The Defence Ministry said the action was taken “to remove threats to the State of Israel,” pointing to intelligence suggesting a possible Iranian missile or drone attack was imminent.
Air-raid sirens sounded across Israel, while emergency alerts were pushed to mobile phones warning citizens of potential retaliation.
The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) subsequently placed the country under “essential activity” status, suspending schools, public gatherings and other non-essential services.
In Iran, state and local media outlets reported explosions in Tehran, including in central parts of the capital.
Images circulating online showed smoke rising from sections of the city, though there has been no official confirmation regarding the precise targets or any casualties.
Unconfirmed reports suggested that the United States may have provided support or coordination for the strike, including the movement of military assets into the region.
However, official confirmation from Washington remains limited.
The development comes amid renewed diplomatic engagement earlier this month between the United States and Iran over Tehran’s nuclear programme.
Israel has repeatedly insisted that any agreement must include firm restrictions on Iran’s missile capabilities.
Observers warn that the latest military action could undermine ongoing diplomatic efforts and further destabilise an already fragile regional security landscape.
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