Massive explosions rocked Iran’s central city of Isfahan in the early hours of Tuesday after a reported joint airstrike by the United States and Israel targeted a weapons depot linked to the country’s nuclear programme.
According to a Wall Street Journal report citing a US official, the strike involved the use of powerful bunker buster bombs, 2,000-pound (900-kg) warheads designed to penetrate deep underground before detonating.
The blasts lit up the night sky, sending flames and shockwaves across the area. Isfahan, a major city with a population of around 2.3 million, is considered a key hub for Iran’s nuclear and military infrastructure and is home to the Badr military airbase.
Shortly after the incident, US President Donald Trump shared a video on social media showing multiple explosions followed by intense fires. While he did not provide any context, media reports suggested the footage captured the strike on the ammunition depot.
Airstrike Details and Strategic Target
The reported strike specifically targeted an underground weapons storage facility believed to be connected to Iran’s nuclear capabilities. Bunker buster bombs are typically used in such operations because of their ability to destroy deeply buried and reinforced structures.
The use of these high-impact munitions indicates the strategic importance of the target. According to the report, the operation was carefully planned to weaken Iran’s military infrastructure in one of its most critical regions.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) also confirmed a broader offensive, stating that they struck at least 170 targets across multiple areas, including Tehran, using more than 400 munitions.
Iran Downs US Drone
Amid rising tensions, Iran claimed it successfully shot down a US-made MQ-9 Reaper drone over Isfahan. The unmanned aerial vehicle, known for long-range surveillance and strike capabilities, was reportedly intercepted by Iran’s air defence systems.
“An MQ-9 Reaper drone was intercepted and destroyed over Isfahan a few minutes ago,” the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said in a statement cited by Russia’s Tass News Agency.
Iran described the interception as evidence of its advanced defensive capabilities, suggesting the drone was unable to penetrate its airspace undetected.
Missile Exchange and Explosions in Jerusalem
The situation escalated further as Iran launched several missiles toward Israel in retaliation. Loud explosions were heard in Jerusalem, with reports indicating that at least 10 blasts occurred during the early hours of Tuesday.
“A short while ago, the IDF identified missiles launched from Iran toward the territory of the State of Israel,” Gulf News reported, citing the Israeli military’s Telegram account.
Israel’s air defence systems were activated immediately and began intercepting the incoming missiles, preventing significant damage.
The exchange marks a sharp escalation in hostilities between the two sides, raising concerns about a wider regional conflict as both nations continue to engage in direct and indirect military actions.