Overview
- Israel said it carried out preventive airstrikes inside Iran on Saturday, escalating a confrontation that both sides had warned could widen.
- Reports from Iranian media and international outlets cited explosions in Tehran, Isfahan, Qom, Karaj and Kermanshah, with smoke seen over parts of the capital.
- Israel’s defence minister declared a nationwide emergency as the IDF warned of potential Iranian missile or drone attacks, closed national airspace and told civilians to stay near shelters.
- The United States has reinforced Israel’s air and missile defenses with systems including THAAD and has assisted in intercepting Iranian missiles using ground and naval assets, with additional forces reported moving toward the region.
- Analysts highlight Iran’s larger troop numbers and expanding missile and drone programs versus Israel’s technological edge, layered air defenses and US backing, with nuclear stakes increasing the strategic risks.