Tehran, Iran — An explosion disrupted a live broadcast of the Islamic Republic of Iran News Network on Monday, striking as news anchor Sahar Emami was delivering a segment condemning Israeli military actions. The event underscored the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran amid ongoing conflict.
While Emami was denouncing what she termed Israeli “aggression,” a strong blast was heard, causing chaos in the studio as equipment rattled and the transmission abruptly cut out. According to the network, the studio was struck by four explosive devices. Israel acknowledged its involvement, describing the facility as a hub of “propaganda and incitement.”
Emami quickly returned to the air from an alternate studio, resuming the broadcast with a colleague at her side. The network initially shifted to pre-recorded content as the incident unfolded. Despite the earlier disruption, Emami maintained her composure, continuing coverage of the situation in the region.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry reacted swiftly, labeling the attack on the news facility a “cowardly act of war” and calling for intervention from the United Nations Security Council. A foreign ministry spokesperson took to social media to express outrage at what they viewed as an assault on freedom of the press.
The Committee to Protect Journalists expressed deep concern about the targeting of media during wartime, emphasizing the significant risks faced by journalists in conflict zones. An Iranian reporter shared his fears on social media, uncertain about the status of his colleagues as flames engulfed the building.
Tensions have escalated in the region since Israel targeted Iranian nuclear development sites last week, following a deadly assault by Hamas on Israeli soil. Reports indicate that at least 224 fatalities have been reported in the wake of Israel’s airstrikes. In response, Iran claimed to have fired 100 missiles toward Israel, with Israeli officials confirming casualties on their side.
Prior to the airstrike on the news studio, Israeli authorities issued a warning to residents in central Tehran, urging them to evacuate the area. This region houses approximately 330,000 residents, emphasizing the potential for widespread danger as military actions continue.
In a related development, former President Donald Trump urged immediate evacuation of Tehran, amplifying concerns about the escalating violence in the region. As the conflict continues to unfold, the implications for both nations grow increasingly complex and dire.