ISRAEL has launched strikes against Iran in a dramatic escalation risking all-out war in the Middle East.

Explosions rung out and plumes of black smoke rose above the capital Tehran after a volley of “preemptive strikes” in the devastating blitz.

The attack follows heightened tensions stemming from Iran’s advancing nuclear program, with Donald Trump cautioning about a “massive conflict” between the adversarial nations.

Fearing a reprisal, Israel has already declared a “special state of emergency”, closing schools and public gatherings.

Defense Minister Israel Katz stated, “In the wake of the State of Israel’s preemptive strike against Iran, a missile and drone attack on the State of Israel and its civilian population is anticipated in the near future.”

On Thursday, the UN’s nuclear watchdog the International Atomic Energy Agency censured Iran for failing to work with its inspectors.

Trump had previously hinted at potential conflict, stating: “They are being moved out because it could be a dangerous place and we’ll see what happens.”

“They can’t have a nuclear weapon, very simple, they can’t have a nuclear weapon, we’re not going to allow that.”