Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said the military is carrying out heavy strikes on sites linked to the Iranian government in Tehran and that the operations will continue.

In a statement on social media platform X, he said an air bridge would be maintained to sustain attacks on targets in the city.

Reports from Tehran said thick smoke was seen rising from several areas, with loud explosions heard for hours.

Ambulance sirens were also reported.

Initial accounts suggested military installations were targeted, though this could not be independently verified.

According to reports, strikes hit seven locations, including areas near Tehran’s airport.

It remains unclear whether the sites were military or government facilities.

Some attacks were reported near major hotels and shopping centres, causing public concern.

Residents were seen stocking up on food and essential supplies amid fears of prolonged unrest.

Separately, Qatar’s Defence Ministry said its early warning system remained active and incoming missiles were intercepted in mid-air, with no casualties reported.

Smoke was observed near Doha’s central industrial area and near the headquarters of the US Central Command.

Falling debris reportedly caused a warehouse fire, though media access was restricted due to security measures.

British Defence officials said Iranian missiles were launched towards Cyprus, where thousands of British troops are stationed, adding that the missiles were not directly targeting the island but highlighted rising regional tensions.

They also said missiles had fallen near British forces in Bahrain without causing major damage.

Bahrain’s National Communications Centre said a new wave of Iranian ballistic missiles and drones over the Gulf was intercepted and that air defence systems remained active.