ISTANBUL

Iranian media reported Saturday the sound of five new explosions in Tehran, as Israel began a second wave of attacks against the country.

The Tasnim news agency confirmed that air defense systems in central Tehran have been activated in response to the escalating attacks.

Iranian state television also noted hearing six loud sounds resembling explosions in parts of the capital, with the source of the noises currently unverified.

The Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper in Israel dismissed Iranian claims that the explosions resulted from air defense interceptions and labeled the reports as false.

Israel announced its military conducted "precise strikes" against “military targets” in Iran, as explosions were heard earlier in Tehran.

"Right now, the Israel Defense Forces is conducting precise strikes on military targets in Iran," Israeli army spokesman Rear Adm. Danial Hagari said in a statement.

Israeli army radio said dozens of Israeli aircraft are launching attacks against Tehran, Meshed and a power station in Karaj.

Washington was informed beforehand but there is no US involvement in the Israeli strikes against Iran, according to an American defense official.

Israel's state television, KAN, reported that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant were at the Defense Ministry building during the strikes.

In an evening report, based on an unnamed source, KAN said Gallant and Chief of General Staff Herzi Halevi approved the plan to attack Iran, pending a decision from the government.