‘Explosions’ Heard in Iran, Flights Divert

This unfolds against the backdrop of heightened tensions following Iran’s unprecedented missile-and-drone attack on Israel on April 13.

The dual-use civilian airport and air base in Isfahan, Iran, on April 18, 2024. Planet Labs PBC via AP

Flights in western Iran began diverting amid reports of “loud noise” and “explosions” early on April 19, according to Iranian media.

Soon after, the Australian government issued a warning for any of its citizens in Israel or “occupied Palestinian territories” to depart as soon as possible, citing a “high threat of military reprisals and terrorist attacks against Israel and Israeli interests across the region.”