Intense Explosions Reported in Iran Amid Ongoing Israel-Iran Tensions
On the morning of Friday, June 20, reports from Iranian media revealed a series of loud explosions near the Sefidrood Industrial Park in Rasht, located in northern Iran. According to Fars News Agency, air defense systems were quickly activated in response to what officials described as “hostile aircraft activity.”
The developments came shortly after warnings from Israeli authorities, urging civilians to evacuate the village of Kalash Talshan, located close to the targeted industrial zone. Social media footage captured multiple blasts in the region early Friday, adding to growing fears of escalation.
Simultaneously, Mehr News Agency reported that Tehran’s air defense systems were engaged, with alarms sounded in several neighborhoods. Israeli media outlets also confirmed that a large-scale air operation was underway, targeting strategic locations across western Iran.
Attacks Extend Beyond Rasht
In a separate incident, the Young Journalists Club claimed that Israeli drones had attacked IRGC (Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps) forces in the Bostan Abad district of East Azerbaijan Province, resulting in casualties among Iranian troops.
Videos shared online also showed a massive explosion in the Nobonyad area of northeastern Tehran, with thick black smoke rising from the scene. The cause of the blast has not been independently confirmed, but it coincides with reports of a drone strike allegedly carried out by Israeli forces.
Ongoing Strikes and Military Statements
The conflict, now in its seventh consecutive day, saw a significant escalation on Thursday night. The Israeli military claimed responsibility for launching a strike on the Revolutionary Guards’ central command in Tehran, releasing images that show missiles hitting their target.
Meanwhile, Iranian outlets such as Khabar Online reported a series of powerful explosions across eastern and northern Tehran, including in the Lavizan neighborhood. These incidents come amid mounting military activity on both sides.
Israeli forces have also been active on their northern front, intercepting what they describe as over 480 Iranian drones. According to a spokesperson for the Israeli army, current targets include missile storage sites and launch facilities. The spokesperson added, “We’re operating on land, air, and sea without pause. Preparations are in place for a prolonged conflict.”
In an official statement, Israeli defense officials claimed they’ve been monitoring attempts by Iranian units to rebuild destroyed weapons facilities, warning that such efforts will be swiftly neutralized.
Civilian Impact and Escalation
Iran’s state-run media confirmed that Tehran’s anti-aircraft systems had been activated multiple times in the last 24 hours in response to “enemy threats” overhead. The human cost of these military exchanges is rising sharply.
According to Human Rights Watch, which is based in Washington, D.C., the confrontations have so far resulted in at least 639 fatalities and 1,329 injuries. Among the dead are dozens of high-ranking military officials and at least 10 nuclear scientists. Civilian deaths account for 263 of the total casualties, while 154 victims were members of security forces.
Iran has retaliated with missile and drone attacks directed at Israel, and its leadership has pledged further actions in the coming days.
