February 28, (THEWILL) — Explosions reverberated through Tehran early Saturday as Israel confirmed it had launched coordinated military strikes against Iran in what it described as a “pre-emptive attack” to neutralise perceived threats to national security.
The operation marks a significant escalation in hostilities between the two regional adversaries and has triggered a nationwide emergency in Israel.
An Israeli military spokesperson said the country had “launched a pre-emptive strike against Iran to remove threats to the State of Israel,” adding that the operation was conducted in coordination with the United States military. U.S. and Israeli media reports indicated that American forces provided support as part of the broader regional security framework.
Multiple explosions were reported in central Tehran, including areas near key government facilities. Local sources indicated that one apparent strike occurred close to offices linked to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iranian authorities had not, as of press time, released comprehensive details regarding casualties or the full extent of the damage.
The strikes came hours after U.S. President Donald Trump expressed dissatisfaction with the latest negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme, saying he was “not happy” with the progress of diplomatic talks. Washington has in recent weeks increased its military presence in the Middle East, deploying two aircraft carrier strike groups to the region amid rising tensions.
In anticipation of possible retaliation, Israel declared a special state of emergency nationwide, closed its airspace and placed its air defence systems on high alert. Authorities urged residents to remain close to designated shelters, warning of potential Iranian drone and missile strikes in response.
Regional security analysts warn that the direct military confrontation could provoke a broader escalation, either through direct Iranian retaliation or through allied armed groups operating across the Middle East. Governments worldwide are closely monitoring developments, with some issuing travel advisories as fears grow of a wider regional conflict.
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