Israel launches attack on Iran’s capital with US’ help as tensions rise over nuclear talks

Dubai: Israel launched a daylight attack Saturday on Iran’s capital, with a cloud of smoke rising from the city’s downtown. The first apparent strike happened near the offices of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The United States is participating, though it was not immediately clear the full extent of its involvement, according to a US official and a person familiar with the operation, who spoke on condition of anonymity to detail sensitive military operations.

It was not immediately clear whether the 86-year-old Khamenei had been in his offices at the time. He has not been seen publicly in days as tensions with the United States have grown. The attack comes as the United States has assembled a vast fleet of fighter jets and warships in the region to pressure Iran into a deal over its nuclear program.

Trump had wanted a deal to constrain Iran’s nuclear program and saw an opportunity while the country is struggling at home with growing dissent following nationwide protests. Iran has sought to avert a war, but maintains it has the right to enrich uranium and does not want to discuss other issues, such as its long-range missile program or support for armed groups like Hamas and Hezbollah.

It was not immediately clear if Iran would strike back, but it has warned that American military personnel and bases spread across the region would be targets for any retaliation.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz described the attack as being carried out “to remove threats,” but did not immediately elaborate.

In Tehran, witnesses reported hearing the first blast near Khamenei’s office. Iranian state television later reported on the explosion without offering a cause.

Sirens sounded across Israel as it closed its airspace. The Israeli military said it had issued a “proactive alert to prepare the public for the possibility of missiles being launched toward the state of Israel.” More explosions were reported in Tehran after Israel said it was attacking the country. Authorities have not provided casualty information.

Meanwhile, Iran shut down its airspace and mobile phone services were cut. A warning to pilots was issued as explosions rang out across Tehran. (PTI)