Feb 28, Kathmandu - Israel has initiated airstrikes across various cities in Iran, marking a major escalation in regional tensions. The operation began early this morning, with Israel claiming the attack was a preemptive measure.

According to reports from both American and Israeli media outlets cited by BBC, the United States has expressed support for Israel’s actions. Israel described the strikes as a precautionary measure to prevent potential threats.

Israeli Defense Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir announced a nationwide declaration of a “special and permanent emergency state” in response to the ongoing conflict.

In Iran, the Fars News Agency reported loud explosions in the downtown Tehran area, with initial accounts indicating that numerous missiles landed in the Daneshgah Street and Jomhouri districts. Other Iranian news sources confirmed sounds of explosions in multiple cities, including Kermanshah, Qom, Lorestan, Kerman, and Tabriz.

In response to the strikes, both Israel and Iran have shut down their airspace. Israeli officials announced the closure of their airspace to civilian flights for Saturday, with an Israeli military spokesperson warning that the entire country’s airspace remains temporarily closed until further notice.

To alert the public, Israeli authorities have also activated air raid sirens across various locations, signaling heightened alertness amid the ongoing conflict.