Explosions Reported in Isfahan

Iran's state media reported explosions in the central province of Isfahan, as US media quoted officials saying Israel had carried out retaliatory strikes on its arch-rival.

Air defense systems over several Iranian cities were activated, state media reported, after the country's official broadcaster said explosions were heard near the city of Isfahan.

Israel had previously warned it would hit back after Iran fired hundreds of missiles and drones at Israel almost a week ago.

Fears of a major regional spillover from the Gaza war have since soared.

Iran's Fars news agency reported "three explosions" were heard near Qahjavarestan, near Isfahan airport and the 8th Shekari army air base, while Iran's space agency spokesman Hossein Dalirian said "several" drones had been "successfully shot down".

Reports indicate there was no major damage or large explosions caused by the impact of any air threat.

"If the Zionist regime wants to take action against our nuclear centers and facilities, it will definitely and surely face our reaction," said Ahmad Haghtalab, Iran's Revolutionary Guards head of Nuclear Protection and Security.

"If any threat and action is taken by the Zionist regime against the country's nuclear facilities, there will be a possibility of retaliating with the use of advanced weapons, and the regime's nuclear centers will definitely be attacked," he added.

His warning came after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel reserves "the right to protect itself" following the Iranian attack with hundreds of drones and missiles.

Flights were suspended across swathes of Iran, with the UAE-based flydubai airline canceling flights to the country, but Tehran's two major airports later resumed service.