Israel has carried out dozens of air strikes on Iran and has declared an emergency as it braces for retaliation.
Its military said a “pre-emptive, precise, combined offensive based on high-quality intelligence” had been launched – called Operation Rising Lion.
“Dozens of IAF jets completed the first stage that included strikes on dozens of military targets, including nuclear targets in different areas of Iran,” said a statement.
Explosions were heard northeast of capital Tehran early on Friday, reported Iran’s state-run Nour News.
The Fars news agency said buildings belonging to the armed forces were hit in the Mahalati complex north of the city.
A “special state of emergency” is now in effect in Israel, according to its defence minister.
Israel Katz said a “missile and drone attack.. is expected in the immediate future”.
Israelis were woken in the early hours by air raid sirens and a phone alert warning there could be “severe retaliation”, said Sky’s Middle East correspondent Alistair Bunkall.
An IDF statement said authorities are “prepared for a wide range of scenarios in defense and offense that may be needed”.
US secretary of state Marco Rubio said America was not involved and Israel believed the strikes were necessary for its self defence.
He said “necessary steps” had been taken to protect US forces in the region.
“Let me be clear: Iran should not target US interests or personnel,” Mr Rubio warned.
The attack comes amid fears over Iran’s nuclear programme, with a warning this week the country is breaking its obligations for the first time in 20 years.
Israel and the US have long feared Iran wants to develop a nuclear weapon. Tehran has repeatedly denied this and insists its programme is for civilian purposes.
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