Iranian authorities have warned residents in parts of Tehran and other cities to stay indoors after strikes on oil and fuel depots sent plumes of thick black smoke into the sky and raised fears of “toxic” or acidic rain.
Officials and humanitarian agencies say recent US‑Israeli attacks on refineries and fuel storage sites around the capital and other regions have released large quantities of pollutants into the atmosphere, prompting health alerts for millions of people who could be exposed if the contaminated clouds produce rainfall.
Footage shared by local media and residents showed dark, sooty rain falling in some districts, coating cars and buildings. Health officials have advised people, especially children, the elderly and those with respiratory conditions, to avoid unnecessary outdoor activity, keep windows closed and use masks if they must go outside. Environmental experts warn that burning large volumes of hydrocarbons and industrial chemicals can generate particulates and compounds capable of irritating skin, lungs and eyes if carried down by rain.
US and Israeli officials say the refinery and depot strikes are aimed at degrading Iran’s military logistics and deny deliberately targeting civilians, while Tehran accuses them of waging environmental warfare.
