JUST IN: Major Explosions Rock Tehran as US-Israeli Strikes Intensify in Iranian Capital
JUST IN: A series of powerful explosions have struck multiple districts of Tehran, Iran’s capital, following a fresh wave of US-Israeli airstrikes, with thick smoke rising over the city and emergency services responding to reported damage and possible casualties.
By Reflecto News Staff
April 3, 2026
TEHRAN – Residents and local media reported several loud explosions and visible fireballs in northern and central Tehran, including areas near Velenjak and other districts. Iranian state media confirmed that the blasts occurred after US-Israeli aircraft conducted strikes on targets within the capital, marking one of the most direct attacks on Tehran since the start of Operation Epic Fury.
Smoke plumes were visible from several locations, and air defense systems were reportedly active. Iranian officials described the strikes as “aggression against civilian areas,” while rescue teams were dispatched to affected neighborhoods.
Details of the Strikes
- Locations: Explosions reported in northern Tehran (Velenjak area) and central districts.
- Damage: Fires and structural damage reported; exact targets have not been fully disclosed, but previous strikes in the capital have hit military, leadership, and dual-use infrastructure.
- Casualties: Initial reports mention possible civilian injuries, though exact figures are still being verified amid the chaos.
This latest round follows earlier strikes on Tehran and comes as President Donald Trump has warned that the U.S. military “hasn’t even started destroying what’s left in Iran,” explicitly naming bridges and power plants as potential future targets.
Context in Operation Epic Fury
The strikes on Tehran occur amid a highly volatile day:
- Multiple U.S. aircraft incidents were reported earlier, including a downed F-15 (one crew member still missing), helicopters hit by Iranian fire during rescue operations, and emergencies involving an F-16 and KC-135.
- Iran has claimed successes in air defense engagements and launched a missile that struck southern Israel.
- Industrial infrastructure continues to suffer, with Mobarakeh Steel Company remaining fully shut down due to prior damage.
U.S. forces, supported by the redeployed USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group and a doubled A-10 Warthog fleet, maintain high operational tempo as Trump has signaled further intensification over the next 2–3 weeks.
Reactions
Iranian Side: Officials condemned the strikes as “barbaric aggression” and vowed a strong retaliatory response. The IRGC and regular army remain on high alert.
Israeli and U.S. Side: No immediate detailed confirmation of specific targets, but the operations align with the campaign’s goal of degrading Iran’s remaining military and industrial capabilities.
International Community: The attacks on the Iranian capital heighten concerns over civilian casualties and escalation risks. The UK-hosted meeting of around 35 countries on reopening the Strait of Hormuz continues, while Russia’s Foreign Minister Lavrov has demanded that the US end hostilities and stop making demands.
Global energy markets remain sensitive due to ongoing disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
Looking Ahead
Strikes on Tehran represent a significant escalation in the geographic scope of the campaign. Whether this prompts a major Iranian retaliation or opens any window for back-channel diplomacy will be critical in the coming hours.
The White House national security team remains in session, and further updates on casualties, confirmed targets, and potential responses are expected shortly.
Reflecto News will provide real-time updates on the situation in Tehran, casualty figures, Iranian reactions, and any statements from Washington or Jerusalem.
Related Coverage on Reflecto News:
- Multiple U.S. Aircraft Incidents Today in Persian Gulf Region
- President Trump Warns Bridges and Power Plants Are Next Targets
- Iran Launches Missile Striking Southern Israel
- Mobarakeh Steel Company Shuts Down All Production Lines
- UK Hosts Meeting of 35 Countries on Reopening Strait of Hormuz
- Russia’s Lavrov Demands US End Hostilities with Iran
This report is based on eyewitness accounts, Iranian state media, international outlets, and the broader context of US-Israeli operations in Tehran during Operation Epic Fury.