In a significant military development that threatens a dangerous escalation in the Middle East, the United States launched large-scale offensive strikes against targets inside Iran, coinciding precisely with the Israeli military's announcement of preemptive strikes targeting the Iranian capital, Tehran, and several other cities. This joint action represents a major turning point in the ongoing conflict in the region.
Eyewitnesses and journalists from Agence France-Presse reported hearing two loud explosions early Saturday morning in the heart of Tehran, with thick plumes of smoke clearly visible rising over the city center and eastern districts, indicating the precision and power of the strikes. The attacks were not limited to the capital but extended to strategic locations in other Iranian cities, reflecting the comprehensive nature of the military operation.
Preemptive strike and declaration of a state of emergency
For its part, the Israeli Ministry of Defense officially announced on Saturday morning that it had carried out what it described as a "preemptive strike" against Iran, justifying it by the need to neutralize imminent threats. Simultaneously, sirens sounded in Jerusalem and its surrounding areas, while residents received urgent warning messages on their mobile phones stating "extremely serious alert," sparking a state of anticipation and anxiety among the Israeli public.
In a related context, Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz announced the immediate imposition of a "special situation" on the home front throughout the country, a measure usually taken when large-scale military responses are anticipated, giving authorities broader powers to protect the civilian population.
Paralysis in air traffic and logistical repercussions
As an immediate precautionary measure, Israel completely closed its airspace to civilian flights. Israeli Transportation Minister Miri Regev stated, "Following the rapidly evolving security situation, I instructed the Director of the Civil Aviation Authority to close Israeli airspace to civilian flights in order to ensure the safety of passengers." This decision resulted in the suspension of air traffic and the rerouting of numerous international flights in the region.
Background of the conflict and regional dimensions
This joint attack cannot be separated from the context of the escalating tensions that have been building for years between Tehran on one side, and Tel Aviv and Washington on the other. Relations have long been strained due to Iran's nuclear program and Tehran's support for armed groups in the region. However, the shift from a "shadow war" and cyberattacks or assassinations attributed to Israel, to direct and declared airstrikes with American participation, represents a strategic change in the rules of engagement.
Observers believe the timing and joint nature of the strike carry firm political and military messages, indicating that the United States is prepared to engage directly in military operations to protect its interests and those of its allies. This event is expected to have significant repercussions for regional stability, amid international concerns that the situation could escalate into a full-blown regional war that could disrupt global energy supplies and financial markets.
