TEHRAN, Iran 

A series of explosions struck Iran’s capital early Saturday as the city came under US and Israeli attacks.

Severe explosions were reported in the northeastern areas of the city.

Flashes were seen lighting up the sky, while smoke was observed rising from affected areas.

Iran’s air defense systems were activated following the attacks.

Iranian media also reported brief power outages in some parts of the city.

Hostilities in the region have escalated since the US and Israel launched a joint offensive against Iran on Feb. 28.

Tehran has retaliated with waves of drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq and Gulf countries hosting US military assets, inflicting casualties and infrastructure damage, while disrupting global markets and aviation.

*Writing by Merve Berker