Missiles Over Tehran: Israel’s Pre-Emptive Strike Pushes Region to the Brink

Powerful blasts echoed across Tehran after Israel announced it had carried out a pre-emptive missile operation against Iran. Residents reported loud explosions in central neighbourhoods. Dark smoke was seen rising above key streets and public squares. Iranian outlets said multiple sites were hit in quick succession.

One impact zone was said to be close to offices associated with Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. His whereabouts at the time were unclear. Some reports suggested he had already been relocated for security reasons. Iranian authorities have yet to give a full damage assessment.

Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed the strike. He said the action was meant to neutralise imminent threats. In a public statement, his ministry declared: “The State of Israel has launched a preemptive strike against Iran.” A nationwide state of emergency was imposed soon after. Airspace was shut down. Schools and most workplaces were ordered closed.

Warning sirens rang out in several Israeli cities. The military urged citizens to stay near shelters. Officials fear retaliation in the form of missiles or armed drones. Emergency teams were placed on high alert.

The attack comes at a delicate diplomatic moment. Washington and Tehran have been attempting to revive nuclear negotiations. Talks resumed earlier this year but remain fragile. Israel has consistently demanded stricter limits on Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities. Tehran insists its programme is civilian in nature and has rejected broader conditions.

This latest flare-up follows a brief but intense air conflict months ago. That exchange saw strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and counterattacks targeting regional military bases. Tensions have simmered since then.

Observers warn the situation could spiral quickly. A wider conflict would carry serious regional and global consequences. Energy markets are watching closely. So are world powers with strategic interests in the Middle East. For now, uncertainty dominates. Both nations appear to be preparing for what could come next.