Explosions were reported early Sunday in eastern Tehran and the northern city of Tabriz, prompting the activation of Iranian air defense systems, according to local news sources. The U.S. has yet to finalize its decision on joining Israel’s military campaign against Iran, although a report from the New York Times suggests a decision may come within days. Israeli officials indicated their expectation that Washington would participate in the conflict and is currently preparing for potential military action.
U.S. President Donald Trump, who recently returned from New Jersey, is scheduled to hold discussions with his national security team at the White House shortly. On social media, Trump referenced a Fox News report detailing an ultimatum he delivered to Iran, stating that decisions regarding an attack could be made “within two weeks.” He added, “only time will tell.”
Meanwhile, Iranian state television claimed that the country had initiated drone launches aimed at strategic targets across Israel, with reports of sirens sounding in southern Golan due to a UAV threat, which was later intercepted. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have intensified their operations against Iranian drone capabilities, targeting unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) depots and a weapons storage facility located in southwestern Iran, specifically the Bandar Abbas area.
As these developments unfold, sources have informed Reuters that, without American intervention, Israel may independently attack the nuclear facility at Fordow, a possibility that is reportedly gaining urgency. The air superiority achieved by Israel would support this operation, although risks remain high. Recent discussions between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Israel Katz, and IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir have clarified Israel’s position in talks with senior U.S. officials regarding the impending operation.
With limited time perceived for action due to the escalating conflict, one source suggested, “I don’t think they will wait much longer,” indicating that Israel may aim for significant damage at Fordow rather than total destruction. Another scenario discussed involved the use of bunker-busting munitions to target the facility, followed by a ground raid utilizing special forces.
Amid rising tensions, an Iranian official warned that Israel’s nuclear reactor in Dimona could be a “legitimate target” if hostilities escalate. The official claimed, “Our attacks against Israeli targets are very effective,” asserting that Iran possesses advanced missile technology and strategic information regarding Israel’s interceptor missile capabilities. They also noted that the U.S. siding with Israel could lead to a more extensive regional conflict, making American bases in the area easier targets than deep strikes into Israel.
After Shabbat, IDF spokesman Brigadier General Effi Defrin announced that the Air Force had struck three Iranian F-14 fighter jets within Iran. He highlighted that the IDF is actively dismantling missile production components and impairing Iranian military capabilities. Defrin stated that, over the past week, more than 1,000 drones were launched toward Israeli territory, and Israeli operations are focused on disabling the command capabilities of Iranian drone operations.
The IDF also announced that, following a situational assessment, defense policies for the Home Front Command will remain in effect until Monday evening at 8 p.m., with potential modifications for specific regions to allow certain educational activities based on safety conditions.
In a related note, the New York Times reported on the deployment of B-2 bombers alongside additional U.S. fighter jets—including F-22, F-16, and F-35 models—being moved from Europe to bases in the Middle East. These aircraft may accompany B-2 bombers during any strike on Fordow or defend U.S. positions against possible Iranian retaliation.
Iranian air defense systems were activated Saturday in major cities such as Qom, Tehran, Isfahan, and Bandar Abbas, with state media corroborating reports of significant explosions across central and northern Tehran.