New Delhi/Tehran 28 February (H.S.): The United States and Israel on Saturday jointly launched strikes against Iran, with explosions reported in the capital city of Tehran amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran.

Reports indicated that the United States was participating in the Israeli operation. A cloud of smoke was seen rising from downtown Tehran, with the strike reported near offices associated with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. It was not immediately clear whether the 86-year-old leader was present at the location at the time. No official casualty figures have been released.

The strikes come after weeks of heightened tensions, during which the United States had increased its military presence in the region, deploying fighter jets and warships as part of efforts to pressure Iran over its nuclear programme.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said the operation was carried out to remove threats, without providing further details. Iranian state television acknowledged explosions in the capital but did not immediately elaborate on the cause or extent of damage.

Following the strikes, Iran closed its airspace, issuing warnings to pilots as explosions were reported across Tehran. At the same time, sirens sounded across Israel amid concerns of potential retaliation.

The Israeli military issued alerts advising citizens to remain close to protected spaces. A national warning was reportedly sent to residents, asking them to stay near shelters as a precautionary measure.

Israel also declared a state of emergency and imposed restrictions including suspension of educational activities, prohibition of gatherings and closure of workplaces, except for essential services. Authorities directed the public to follow updated Home Front Command guidelines as the security situation continued to develop.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar