An Israeli missile has struck Iran, triggering blasts which were heard in the central province of Isfahan, the BBC reported. Reports from Iranian media indicate that flights have been suspended over several cities following the attack.
The strike comes amid heightened tensions between Israel and Iran, with Iran placed on high alert after Israel vowed to retaliate against an Iranian attack on Saturday night. Earlier, Iran had launched over 300 drones and missiles in its first-ever direct assault on Israel. However, the majority of these were intercepted by Israeli air defences, backed by support from the US, UK and other allies.
While Iranian media has not confirmed any direct impacts, assuring the safety of all nuclear facilities, the Israeli military has remained silent on the matter. Isfahan province, where the strikes were reported, houses significant military installations, including a large airbase, a major missile production complex, and various nuclear sites.
Iran’s Fars news agency reported explosions near Isfahan international airport and an army base in Isfahan city, prompting the activation of local air defence systems.
Footage from Isfahan in Iran, shared on BBC Persian’s Instagram account, shows orange flashes illuminating the night sky, accompanied by what seems to be bursts of anti-aircraft fire.
In response to escalating tensions, leaders of Iran had previously warned of swift retaliation to any Israeli aggression. International efforts to de-escalate the crisis have been ongoing, with appeals for restraint from various quarters.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres, addressing the Security Council on Thursday, highlighted the dangerous escalation between Israel and Iran. He warned of the potential for grave consequences, emphasizing the need to avoid any miscalculations or miscommunications that could lead to a catastrophic regional conflict.
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