Israel launched a preemptive military strike against Iran early Saturday, with multiple explosions reported across Tehran. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced the attack, stating it aimed to "remove threats to the State of Israel." The US is involved.

The strikes triggered a nationwide state of emergency in Israel, with sirens blaring across the country and airspace closed. Authorities instructed citizens to remain near bomb shelters and shifted operations to essential activities only, including school closures and bans on gatherings. Explosions were heard in central and western Tehran, including University Street, Jomhouri area, and near the offices of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the presidential palace, and the National Security Council. Plumes of smoke rose over downtown areas like Jomhouri Square and Hassan Abad Square, according to Iranian media and eyewitness reports.

Israel targeted Iranian ballistic missiles and launchers deemed an imminent threat. No casualties have been reported at this very early stage. Iranian state media confirmed the blasts but provided limited details.

A U.S. official confirmed American military strikes on Iran were underway, describing them as "not a small strike." An Israeli source indicated the operation was coordinated with the United States, and another U.S. official told Al Jazeera it was a joint effort. The U.S. Embassy in Qatar ordered shelter-in-place for personnel.

The attacks follow months of escalating tensions over Iran's nuclear program and ballistic missile development. U.S. President Donald Trump repeatedly warned of military action if Tehran did not curb uranium enrichment and proxy support for groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis. Recent indirect talks in Oman and Switzerland failed to yield a breakthrough, with the latest round ending Thursday without agreement. The U.S. deployed aircraft carriers USS Gerald R. Ford and USS Abraham Lincoln to the region earlier this month.

Iran has faced domestic unrest, with protests met by a crackdown killing thousands, drawing further international condemnation. Trump had urged Iranians to rise up in January. Last-ditch diplomatic efforts, including Omani mediation and talks involving U.S. Vice President JD Vance, collapsed in the past 24 hours.

Israel anticipates Iranian retaliation via drones and missiles, prompting the emergency measures. No immediate response from Tehran has been confirmed, though Iranian officials previously warned of targeting U.S. assets in the region. The situation remains fluid as details emerge.