Demonstrations across Iran celebrate military response to Israel, condemn Isfahan 'attack'

TEHRAN, Iran

Thousands of Iranians rallied nationwide on Friday to celebrate last week's retaliatory strikes on Iran, and to condemn Tel Aviv's alleged attack on the central city of Isfahan.

The demonstrations in Tehran and other cities were attended by thousands of people, with many waving flags and chanting slogans in support of the weekend's military action which included drones and missiles.

They chanted slogans to celebrate what they called the "victory" over Israel, and also shouted anti-US and anti-Israel chants.

Israel is said to have launched early Friday strikes against Iran, but officials have yet to confirm. Iranian state media said there was no damage and country's air defense systems shot down incoming objects.

Tensions escalated after Tehran launched a drone and missile attack on Saturday in response to the April 1 attack on its consulate in Syria, in which several military advisers were killed.

*Writing by Mohammad Sio in Istanbul