Israel launched a military operation against Iran late Thursday, with explosions reported in Tehran, the capital. Iran’s state-run news agency confirmed the blasts, and both CNN and The New York Times reported that Israel’s defence minister said an attack, what he referred was ‘preemptive strikes’ was under way.Israel has warned for years that it would strike Iran if its nuclear program posed a serious threat. The two countries have a long history of hostility. International monitors say Iran has continued enriching uranium close to weapons-grade levels.The strike comes as the Trump administration has been trying to reach a deal with Iran to limit its nuclear program. US envoy Steve Witkoff has held five rounds of talks with Iranian officials. It’s unclear if the US was involved in Israel’s operation, but there are no signs it took part.However, US secretary of state Marco Rubio denied US involvement, and US officials emphasised that the strike was Israel’s decision.“Tonight, Israel took unilateral action against Iran. We are not involved in strikes against Iran and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region,” said the US secretary of state. “Israel advised us that they believe this action was necessary for its self-defense. President Trump and the Administration have taken all necessary steps to protect our forces and remain in close contact with our regional partners. Let me be clear: Iran should not target US interests or personnel.”
