Israel has launched a series of “preemptive” missile attacks on Iran as vision emerges of explosion in the capital of Tehran.
Smoke can be seen billowing from buildings as the red glow of fire breaks out across the city
Israeli planes are traversing the skies above Tehran and hitting various targets in heavily populated areas.
Air defence sites are reportedly being targeted as Israel closes its airspace and prepares for the coming days of battle.
The Israeli Government have declared a state of emergency for Jerusalem and are expecting retalitory attacks from Iran using drones and long range missiles.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz was seen meeting IDF Chief Eyal Zamir and top commanders ahead of the strike on Iran’s nuclear program.
In a statement, Mr Katz warned Israeli citizens to follow the advice of officials as a return attack from Iran is expected.
“Following the State of Israel’s preemptive strike against Iran, a missile and drone attack against the State of Israel and its civilian population is expected in the immediate future,” Mr Katz said in a statement.
“You must obey the instructions of the Home Front Command and the authorities and remain in the protected areas,” Katz added.
Sirens across Israel blared as citizens were put on alert.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio quickly released a statement saying the US was not involved with the attack.
“Tonight, Israel took unilateral action against Iran,” he said in a statement.
“We are not involved in strikes against Iran and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region.
“Israel advised us that they believe this action was necessary for its self-defence.
“President Trump and the Administration have taken all necessary steps to protect our forces and remain in close contact with our regional partners.
“Let me be clear: Iran should not target US interests or personnel.”
US President Donald Trump warned on Thursday (local time) an attack could happen and soon.
“I don’t want to say imminent, but it looks like it’s something that could very well happen,” Mr Trump told reporters at a White House event earlier on Thursday, adding Iran could not be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon.
“I’d love to avoid the conflict,” he said. “Iran’s going to have to negotiate a little bit tougher, meaning they’re going to have to give us something they’re not willing to give us right now.”
More to come…
https://thewest.com.au/news/world/israel-iran-strike-launched-tehran-struck-explosions-erupt-hours-after-donald-trump-warning-as-idf-swoop-c-19020165
