India, February 28 (HBTV): Israel on Saturday launched a preemptive strike on Iran, with Defence Minister Israel Katz declaring a nationwide state of emergency.
'The State of Israel has launched a preemptive strike against Iran. Defence Minister Israel Katz has declared a special and immediate state of emergency throughout the country,' a ministry statement said.
An explosion was reported near the offices of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, in Tehran, according to reports.
It was not immediately clear whether the 86-year-old leader was present at the time. Khamenei has not appeared publicly in recent days amid rising tensions with the United States.
Thick smoke was seen rising from downtown Tehran, and witnesses reported hearing a powerful blast. Iranian state television acknowledged the explosion but did not provide further details.