Israel launches ‘preemptive’ strike on Iran, as missiles from Iran explode in northern Israel
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Kartz says Israel has launched a “preemptive” strike against Iran.
Explosions were heard in Tehran on Saturday night, with thick smoke seen rising over parts of the city.
Sirens also sounded across Israel, which declared a “special and immediate” state of emergency across the country.
This includes a prohibition on educational activities, gatherings, and workplaces, except for essential sectors.
Israel’s Channel 12 said the U.S. and Israel launched the attack jointly.
The strikes come amid diplomatic efforts between U.S. and Iranian officials for a deal on Iran’s nuclear program.
Badr Albusaidi, Oman’s foreign minister, who mediated the talks, met U.S. Vice President JD Vance on Friday.
“I am grateful for their engagement and look forward to further and decisive progress in the coming days.
“Peace is within our reach,” he wrote on U.S. social media company X after the meeting.
Meanwhile, explosions were heard in the Haifa area of northern Israel on Saturday following launches from Iran, Israeli news outlet Ynet reported.
Earlier, air raid sirens sounded in several areas across Israel after missiles were identified as launched from Iran toward the country, the Israeli army said.
Israel’s attack against Iran early Saturday was code-named ‘Lion’s Roar.’
U.S. President Donald Trump also confirmed “major combat operations” in Iran aimed at defending the American people by “eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime.”
The Iranian armed forces are also targeting U.S. bases in the region, according to Iranian television.
