Over 3,600 munitions have struck the Iranian capital, Tehran, in the past four weeks, according to data analyzed by BBC Eye, as the conflict between the United States and Israel expands within Iranian territory. The strikes, which began approximately one month ago, have targeted Iranian military infrastructure, including nearly 40 police stations and bases belonging to the Basij paramilitary force, often located in densely populated residential areas.
Independent Iranian journalists, working discreetly, have provided BBC Eye with eyewitness accounts and footage documenting the aftermath of the attacks. The reporting details widespread damage to civilian infrastructure alongside the intended military targets. Verification of the damage is complicated by restrictions on independent reporting within Iran, but satellite imagery corroborates reports of significant strikes.
The escalation follows a period of heightened tensions between Iran and the US-Israel alliance, rooted in Iran’s nuclear program and its support for regional proxy groups. While the US has maintained a position of supporting Israel’s defense, direct US involvement in the strikes remains unconfirmed by official statements. The White House has repeatedly stated its desire to de-escalate the conflict, but has not publicly condemned the Israeli actions.
Eyewitness accounts gathered by BBC Eye describe scenes of chaos and destruction following the strikes. One resident of Tehran, speaking on condition of anonymity, reported that a nearby Basij base was hit during the night, causing significant damage to surrounding homes. “The sound was deafening,” the resident said. “We ran outside to find debris everywhere. People were screaming.”
The targeting of Basij bases is particularly sensitive, as the force is responsible for internal security and has been accused of suppressing dissent within Iran. However, their presence within residential areas raises concerns about civilian casualties. Iranian state media has reported casualties, but independent verification is difficult.
The strikes have prompted a muted response from the Iranian government. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has vowed retaliation, but has not specified the nature or timing of any response. Iran’s foreign ministry has condemned the attacks as a violation of international law and a threat to regional stability.
Alongside the escalating conflict in Iran, Nepal recently witnessed a significant political shift with the swearing-in of a former rapper, Pushpa Kamal Dahal, as Prime Minister. This development, while separate from the situation in Iran, highlights the ongoing political transitions occurring globally. Dahal, also known by his nom de guerre “Prachanda,” previously served as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2009.
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The US State Department has declined to comment on the specific details of the strikes in Tehran, reiterating its commitment to Israel’s security and calling on Iran to cease its destabilizing activities in the region. A spokesperson stated that the US is “monitoring the situation closely” and is “prepared to take appropriate action” to protect its interests.
As of today, no formal ceasefire negotiations are underway, and the Iranian government has not publicly outlined any conditions for de-escalation. The next scheduled meeting of the United Nations Security Council to discuss the situation in the Middle East is set for next week, but the prospects for a resolution remain uncertain.
