Israel on Saturday announced the launch of “precise strikes” on military targets in Iran.
“In response to months of continuous attacks from the regime in Iran against the State of Israel — right now the Israel Defense Forces (Israeli military) is conducting precise strikes on military targets in Iran,” the military said in a statement.
Following Iran’s October 1 missile attack in retaliation for Israel striking Tehran in July, Israel had vowed to hit back.
“Our defensive and offensive capabilities are fully mobilised,” the Israeli military said in a statement.
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In a separate statement military spokesman, Daniel Hagari, called on the people to be “alert and vigilant”.
According to Iranian state television, Saturday’s “strong explosions” were heard around the capital, though it did not specify the cause of the blasts.
Explosions were also reportedly heard around other parts of the country, including Shiraz city.
“Minutes ago, the sound of strong explosions were heard from around Tehran, the source of these sounds is not yet clear,” a state TV presenter said.
The extent of the attacks and the precise targets are not yet clear.
Iran’s aviation authority announced that flights had been cancelled on all routes until further notice.