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 comes after tensions flared following Iran’s advancing nuclear programme, with Donald Trump warning of a “massive conflict” between the enemy nations.

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

Defence Minister Israel Katz said: “Following the State of Israel’s preemptive strike against Iran, a missile and drone attack against the State of Israel and its civilian population is expected in the immediate future.”

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

Trump previously alluded to potential conflict as he said: “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.”