A powerful explosion shook downtown Tehran early Saturday, sending thick plumes of smoke into the sky and sparking panic in the heart of Iran’s capital. Witnesses reported hearing a loud blast and seeing dark smoke rising from the scene as emergency crews rushed toward the affected area.
Iranian state media acknowledged the explosion but provided limited details on the cause or casualties so far. The blast occurred amid escalating conflict in the Middle East, with Israel launching what it termed a “preemptive strike” against Iranian targets early Saturday.
Officials in Tehran have not confirmed whether the explosion was directly linked to the reported Israeli military action. However, state broadcasters confirmed the blast and showed images of smoke rising over the skyline, raising alarm among residents and authorities.