The fresh strikes come months after the intense 12-day war between Israel and Iran last June, which saw unprecedented direct military exchanges between the two longtime adversaries.

Tension surged dramatically across the Middle East early on Saturday morning as Israel launched what it described as preventive military strikes on Iran, with loud explosions reported in the Iranian capital, Tehran.

CBI News reports that multiple blasts were heard across Tehran, with residents sharing footage of flashes in the night sky and plumes of smoke rising from parts of the city. Iranian state media acknowledged “incidents” in the capital but did not immediately provide details on the targets or casualties.

Almost simultaneously, air raid sirens wailed across Tel Aviv, signaling fears of possible retaliation. Israeli authorities confirmed that emergency protocols had been activated nationwide, urging citizens to remain close to shelters.

Escalation After 12-Day War

That conflict marked one of the most dangerous escalations in the region in decades, involving missile barrages, drone strikes and attacks on strategic installations.

Security analysts say the latest operation signals that hostilities never truly cooled, despite diplomatic backchannel efforts.

Nuclear Talks In The Background

The air strikes were confirmed shortly after renewed diplomatic talks between Iran and the United States aimed at curbing Tehran’s nuclear program. Sources familiar with the negotiations say discussions had focused on limiting uranium enrichment levels and expanding international inspections.

Observers believe Israel may have acted out of concern that diplomacy was not moving swiftly enough to halt what it perceives as Iran’s advancing nuclear capabilities.

Israeli officials have repeatedly stated that they reserve the right to act independently to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.