By Akpos Oje
A 5.1-magnitude earthquake struck northern Iran on Friday, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), as the country continued to face sustained aerial bombardments from Israeli forces.
The USGS reported that the earthquake occurred at approximately 37 kilometres (23 miles) southwest of Semnan, a city in north-central Iran. The quake struck at a shallow depth of 10 kilometres (6 miles), which typically increases the potential for surface damage.
Iran’s semi-official Tasnim News Agency, citing domestic seismic monitors, recorded the quake at a slightly higher magnitude of 5.2. No immediate reports of casualties or significant damage were available at the time of reporting.
The seismic event comes amid heightened regional tensions, with Israel reportedly launching a series of airstrikes targeting Iranian military infrastructure in retaliation for recent hostilities. The timing of the earthquake—coinciding with these military operations—has drawn significant public attention, although there is no connection between the two events, as earthquakes are natural geological phenomena.
Emergency response agencies in Semnan Province have been placed on alert, with local authorities assessing the affected areas for any structural damage or injuries.
Further updates are expected as rescue and assessment operations continue.
