Multiple explosions reported near military base housing fighter jets in Iran

New Delhi, Apr 19: According to Iranian semi-official FARS news and multiple American media outlets, three explosions have been reported near a military base housing fighter jets in the northwest part of Isfahan. Some media suggest that defence measures were activated in response to a potential drone threat.

Iranian state television reports the downing of three drones over Isfahan. Providing further insights into the situation, it states that around 1230 AM GMT, three drones were spotted in the sky above Isfahan. In response, air defence systems were activated and successfully neutralized these drones in the airspace.

Iran has heightened its alert status following Israel's announcement of retaliation against any Iranian attack on Saturday night. Initial reports indicate that the army radar might have been a potential target, with several office buildings nearby experiencing broken windows. However, the cause of the blasts remains unknown at this time.

These events follow a warning from Iran's Foreign Minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, promising an immediate and maximum-level response to any further military action by Israel against Iran.

Meanwhile, according to US broadcaster ABC News, Israel has reportedly launched a missile attack targeting a site in Iran. Iranian state media have reported explosions in Isfahan province, leading to the suspension of flights in several cities.

This escalation occurs amid heightened tensions in the region, marked by recent clashes between Iran and Israel, including an Israeli attack on Iran's consulate in Syria earlier this month that was retaliated by Iran's drone and missile attack last week on Israel. Reports have emerged of cancelled outgoing flights from multiple Iranian airports, affecting Tehran, Isfahan, and Shiraz, according to Iranian state TV.