Huge explosions echoed through Iran’s capital, though officials did not immediately confirm the exact targets. Witnesses said smoke was rising from an area that includes the presidential compound and the National Security Council offices.
Security analysts have cautioned that any direct attack on Iran could pull the United States into a prolonged confrontation. Iran’s leadership controls significant military resources and maintains a network of allied armed groups across the region that could sustain a counteroffensive.
Before the operation, American officials anticipated a rapid Iranian response. They warned that Tehran might fire missiles at U.S. bases and diplomatic missions. Iran’s affiliated paramilitary groups were also expected to target American interests in neighboring countries. Part of the recent U.S. military buildup aimed to shield its installations from possible retaliation.
This marks the second American strike on Iran within a year. In June, U.S. forces targeted three nuclear facilities, which Trump claimed were completely destroyed. The latest action also follows a U.S. military mission launched two months ago in Venezuela to detain its leader, Nicolas Maduro.
A U.S. official stated that the immediate focus of the operation is Iran’s military infrastructure. In addition to nuclear sites, Iran reportedly possesses over 2,000 missiles, mainly short- and medium-range ballistic systems positioned at various launch points across the country.
Reports from the semi-official Fars news agency indicated explosions in several other cities, including Qom, Kermanshah, Isfahan, and Karaj. Following the strikes, Israel announced strict nationwide measures, including the closure of schools, workplaces, and public events.
The operation came after Trump expressed dissatisfaction with ongoing negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program. His envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, met Iranian representatives in Geneva on Thursday. However, Trump stated the next day that he was unhappy with the progress. Although he said he preferred to avoid military action, he added that force is sometimes necessary.
