Loud explosions rocked northern Tehran early Saturday morning, causing widespread alarm and sparking a new wave of tensions in the Middle East. The powerful blasts, which occurred at around 7:20 am local time, were heard across the Iranian capital, prompting air defences to spring into action.

According to reports, the explosions were part of a series of missile strikes that targeted several locations in the region, including a quay at an Iranian port city near the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The strikes, which were attributed to US-Israeli forces, resulted in the deaths of five people and injured four others.

In response, Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps has threatened to target US universities in the Middle East, warning that any failure to condemn the strikes by Monday would lead to retaliation. The statement, which was published by Iranian media, advised employees, professors, and students of American universities in the region to stay at least a kilometre away from campuses.

The conflict, which has been ongoing for two months, has already caused significant economic damage and disrupted shipping in the region. The entry of Yemen's Houthi rebels into the conflict has further escalated tensions, with the group launching a ballistic missile towards Israel on Saturday.

The situation remains volatile, with the potential for further escalation and disruption to global shipping routes. The international community is closely watching the developments, as the conflict continues to pose a significant threat to regional and global stability.

💡 NaijaBuzz Take

The escalating conflict in the Middle East has significant implications for global stability and security. The threat of retaliation against US universities in the region is a stark reminder of the risks of military action and the need for diplomacy to resolve the crisis. As the situation continues to unfold, it is clear that the international community must work together to find a peaceful resolution to this conflict.