Israel announced the launch of “precise strikes” on military targets in Iran on Saturday in an operation now believed to be over, as Iranian state media reported several explosions around Tehran and other parts of the country.
“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.
Israel had vowed, following Iran’s 1 October missile attack in retaliation for Israel striking Tehran in July, to hit back.
“Our defensive and offensive capabilities are fully mobilized,” the Israeli military said.
Military spokesman Daniel Hagari in a separate statement called on the people to be “alert and vigilant”.
Iranian state television said Saturday “strong explosions” were heard around the capital, though it did not specify the cause of the blasts. Explosions were reportedly heard around other parts of the country, including Shiraz.
“Minutes ago, the sound of strong explosions was heard from around Tehran, the source of these sounds is not yet clear,” a state TV presenter said.
Iranian media said no fire or explosions had been reported at a main oil refinery near Tehran.
The Israeli public broadcaster said on Saturday the operation against Iran was over after three waves of strikes.
