The US participated in the attack on Iran, carrying out strikes, Wall Street Journal reported, citing a US official, soon after Israel said it had launched a "preventive missile attack" against Tehran. Multiple large explosions were reported in central Tehran on Saturday after weeks of escalating tensions between the two Middle East countries.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz declared a state of emergency as he announced the strike, and said the country expects to come under drone and missile attack in retaliation. The country's airspace was also shut.
Soon after the explosions were reported, thick smoke was seen rising in central Tehran, as per news reports.
Israel Defense Forces, in a post on X, said that sirens were sounded all throughout Israel, with an advance instruction alert directly to cellular devices to stay within proximity to protected spaces.
"This is a proactive alert to prepare the public for the possibility of missiles being launched toward the State of Israel. The IDF emphasizes that the public is requested to stay in proximity to protected spaces," it said
According to Bloomberg, IDF shifted all areas of the country from full activity to essential as retaliation was expected. Associated Press reported that a strike was also reported near Supreme Leader Khamenei's residence and mobile phone services were cut in Iran after the attack.
Meanwhile, India issued advisory for Indian nationals in Israel after the strikes, asking people to avoid non-essential travel. It said that the embassy remains closely engaged with authorities and will keep issuing updates when necessary.
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