BREAKING: Israel Launches Preemptive Strikes on Iran, State of Emergency Declared

Israel has carried out what it described as a “pre-emptive attack” on Iran, triggering emergency measures across Israeli cities and raising fears of a wider regional conflict.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz announced a “special and permanent state of emergency” nationwide following the operation. The declaration came as security agencies warned citizens to remain on high alert.

Explosions were reported in central Tehran early Saturday. Iranian media monitored by POLITICS NIGERIA confirmed at least three loud blasts in the city.

The Fars News Agency also reported that several missiles struck the Republic district of the Iranian capital.

As of the time of filing this report, Iran has not launched a counterattack. However, Israeli authorities say the risk of retaliation remains high.

Shortly after the strike, the Israel Defence Forces announced a “prohibition ‌on educational activities, gatherings, and workplaces.”
The military clarified that “Essential sectors” would continue operating under strict security rules.

The IDF further warned citizens of the “possibility of missiles being launched” from Iran. Sirens reportedly sounded in several parts of the country, while mobile phone alerts instructed residents to stay close to bomb shelters and protected areas.

“This is a proactive alert to prepare the public for the possibility of missiles being launched toward the State of Israel,” the IDF said.

“The IDF emphasizes that the public is requested to stay in proximity to protected spaces,” another statement posted on X and seen by POLITICS NIGERIA added.

This development marks a second direct military confrontation between Israel and Iran following their June 2025 conflict. Tensions between both nations have remained high since then, with repeated threats and counter-threats exchanged over security and nuclear concerns.

Meanwhile, Iran is currently facing internal unrest, with protests reported in several cities against the government. Analysts believe the domestic situation could influence Tehran’s response to the latest attack.

It remains unclear whether the United States played any role in the operation. Washington has not issued an official statement. In recent weeks, the U.S. increased its military presence in the Middle East, describing the move as a precautionary deployment amid rising hostilities.

On Friday, both Israel and Iran reportedly held another round of talks related to Iran’s nuclear programme. Iranian officials have continued to deny claims that the country is developing nuclear weapons.