KATHMANDU: Smoke was seen rising over central Tehran on Saturday following a series of explosions in what appeared to be an Israeli daylight strike on Iran’s capital.

The reported attack is said to have taken place near offices associated with Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. It remains unclear whether the 86-year-old leader was present at the time. He has not made a public appearance in recent days amid escalating tensions in the region.

There has been no immediate confirmation from Iranian authorities regarding the extent of the damage or possible casualties. Israel has also not officially commented on the reports.

The incident comes at a time of heightened regional strain. The United States has recently deployed additional fighter jets and warships to the Middle East, increasing pressure on Tehran amid ongoing disputes over Iran’s nuclear programme.

Former US President Donald Trump has previously sought a deal aimed at limiting Iran’s nuclear activities, arguing that recent internal unrest in Iran could create conditions for renewed negotiations.

Iran maintains that it has the right to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes and has repeatedly rejected discussions concerning its long-range missile programme and its support for regional armed groups, including Hamas and Hezbollah.

While Iranian officials have said they hope to avoid a broader conflict, they have warned that any attack on the country would be met with retaliation.