Israeli army says it is striking at the heart of Tehran

09:56

The Israel Defense Forces announced on Sunday morning that it had launched a new wave of airstrikes targeting what it described as strategic sites linked to the Iranian leadership in the center of Tehran.

In a brief statement, the military said the Israeli Air Force carried out large-scale operations over the past 24 hours with the objective of establishing air superiority and paving the way for deeper operations toward the Iranian capital.

Thick plumes of smoke were reported rising above parts of Tehran following the strikes, according to local accounts and images circulating on social media. Iranian authorities have not immediately released detailed information regarding casualties or damage.

The announcement marks a further escalation in hostilities between Israel and Iran, amid an already volatile regional environment. Military analysts note that targeting central areas of the capital signals a shift in operational intensity and could significantly broaden the scope of the confrontation.

Regional governments and international observers are closely monitoring the situation, amid concerns that continued military exchanges could destabilize the broader Middle East. Diplomatic efforts to contain the crisis remain uncertain as both sides maintain firm positions.