Explosions in Iran
Direct fire has been exchanged for the first time between two regional arch-enemies.
Explosions were heard in Iran early Friday after Israel launched missile strikes in retaliation for a barrage of more than 300 drones and missiles fired by Tehran over the weekend, three U.S. news organizations reported.
"The cause of these sounds is still unknown, and investigations continue until the exact details of the incident are determined," Iran's semi-official Fars news agency reported on Friday. An unidentified Iranian official later told Reuters that the explosions came from local air defense systems, adding that no missile attack had been carried out.
Israeli and U.S. officials have made no immediate comment on the reports. What the exchange of fire means for the region and Israel's war in Gaza is not yet clear as allies of both sides brace for escalation of the conflict.