Eight explosions reported in Iran's Bandar Abbas as air defenses engage targets

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Eight separate explosions were reported in the Iranian port city of Bandar Abbas on Sunday, according to Iranian state television, with air defense batteries activated in response. Iran's official news agency Mehr said the sounds of blasts were heard south of the city and that air defense systems had engaged targets in the surrounding area. Iranian state television reported the explosions took place in Bandar Abbas and that air defense batteries were deployed. Reports from the region said the blasts were also heard in the southern Serik district. Mehr described the incident as "engagement against enemy targets." Iran's air defense command confirmed that elements detected in its airspace had been engaged, according to the agency. The U.S. military said Saturday it had launched a large-scale air operation against Iran. No further details on the nature of the targets or any casualties were immediately available.