- By Priyanka Koul
- Wed, 18 Feb 2026 11:43 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
A fire broke out in Iran’s Parand, close to the capital, Tehran, on Wednesday, according to state media, which shared footage showing thick smoke billowing across the area. The location lies near several military and strategically significant sites within Tehran province.
"The black smoke seen near the city of Parand is the result of a fire in the reeds around the Parand river bank... fire fighters are on site and the fire extinguishing operation is underway", state media cited the Parand fire department as saying, according to Reuters.
🔵ایران: گزارشهایی از
— MAHTABH🪙NEWS (@MahtabH1NEWS) February 18, 2026
انفجار در منطقه کوهستانی نزدیک شهر شیراز در جنوب کشور. pic.twitter.com/EoXOhCkomH
Iran’s state broadcaster, Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), said the fire was caused by arsonists who set light to dried reeds along nearby riverbanks, according to Wion News. In Shiraz, reports indicated an explosion in a mountainous area on the outskirts of the city. Authorities have not yet clarified the cause of that incident.
This comes amid reports that the United States and Israel are on the verge of launching a significant military operation against Iran, potentially beginning “very soon”. According to a report from Axios, citing sources, the operation would be considerably larger in scope than last year’s 12-day conflict and could last for weeks if implemented.
ALSO READ: US, Israel To Launch Major Military Action Against Iran 'Very Soon' Amid Escalating Tensions: Report
The report suggests that the Trump administration is preparing for a campaign extending well beyond limited actions, resembling a full-scale military engagement. Officials indicated that the operation would likely involve a joint effort with Israel, marking a significant escalation in regional military tensions.
