U.S. and Israel Launch Strikes on Iran; Explosions Rock Tehran

New Delhi : The United States and Israel launched coordinated strikes on Iran late Saturday, according to American and Israeli officials, marking a dramatic escalation after weeks of mounting tensions and warnings from U.S. President Donald Trump.

Massive explosions were reported across Tehran, with residents describing loud blasts and thick smoke rising from central districts. Witnesses said smoke was seen near areas housing key government institutions, including the presidential complex and the National Security Council. It was not immediately clear what specific facilities were targeted.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed the strikes in a statement, declaring a nationwide state of emergency in Israel amid fears of Iranian retaliation. The Israeli government announced the immediate closure of schools, workplaces, and international airspace as a precautionary measure.

The strikes follow weeks of heightened tension in the Middle East. President Trump had repeatedly threatened military action if Iran did not agree to U.S. demands, including strict curbs on its nuclear program. In recent weeks, the U.S. military significantly increased its presence in the region, marking one of the largest American deployments there in decades.

Diplomatic efforts appeared to collapse earlier this week after American and Iranian officials held mediated talks in Switzerland aimed at salvaging negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear activities. The talks ended without a breakthrough, seemingly clearing the path for military action.

The current crisis traces back to early January, when President Trump vowed support for anti-government demonstrators in Iran. Iranian authorities responded with a harsh crackdown that rights groups say resulted in thousands of deaths. Since then, Washington has alternated between threatening military force and offering sanctions relief in exchange for sweeping concessions.

U.S. officials have stated that their objectives extend beyond limiting Iran’s nuclear enrichment. Washington is also seeking restrictions on Iran’s ballistic missile program and an end to its support for regional proxy groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah.

Iranian officials have not yet issued a detailed response to the strikes, but regional observers warn that retaliation could trigger a broader conflict across the Middle East.

The situation remains fluid, with global leaders closely monitoring developments amid fears of a wider regional war.

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