More than 15 explosions were heard on Iran's Kharg Island, a key oil export hub that handles most of the country's crude shipments, in the strikes launched by the United States on the island on Saturday, according to local sources.
At least 15 explosions rocked the island, with thick smoke rising, targeting Iran's army defenses, a military base and a helicopter hangar on it, but no oil facilities were damaged in the strikes, according to Iran's Fars News Agency and the sources.
U.S. President Donald Trump has said that "every military target" on the island was "totally obliterated," but the Iranian sources denied his claim, saying that the air defense system on the island was restarted around an hour after the U.S. attacks.
The Iranian Armed Forces said Saturday that it would destroy U.S.-linked energy infrastructure in the region if Iran's energy facilities were attacked.
Kharg Island lies in the Persian Gulf about 25 km off Iran's coast and accounts for about 90 percent of the country's crude exports.
More than 15 explosions heard on Iran's Kharg Island: sources
More than 15 explosions heard on Iran's Kharg Island: sources
A large crowd of Iranians took to the streets of Tehran on Friday to mark the International Quds Day, an annual event expressing support for Palestinians and condemnation of Israeli actions.
The event, established by Iran in 1979, is observed on the final Friday of the fasting month of Ramadan. This year, it fell on March 13 and amid the ongoing U.S.-Israeli strikes against Iran.
Many participants felt the gathering this year carried a broader significance -- representing not only solidarity with the Palestinian cause, but also a reflection of their own national identity amid rising regional tensions.
"This year we're seeing a lot of people here. I have come a long way. What are the sins of these people being killed? We should be all present and support the oppressed," said Zeinab, a participant.
"I have come here to just say to the United States that there is nothing you can do to us. Our Supreme Leader is dead, but his son is here and we stand firmly behind them, even behind his son's son," said Tahere, a Tehran resident.
Many families, students and workers joined the marches, waving Iranian and Palestinian flags, as participants said the situation has strengthened unity at home.
"I have come here both for Palestine and for my country, and I have come here to say that we are Iranians and no one can invade our country," said Behrooz, a resident.
"This is my first time here and I want to say that although Imam Khamenei was killed, there are thousands of others like him and we will stand behind Mojtaba Khamenei forever," said Mehri, another resident.
Iranians hold mass rallies to mark Al Quds Day amid US-Israeli attacks
