A series of nine minor earthquakes struck the Pardis area, east of Tehran, overnight, reigniting fears among experts and residents that the Iranian capital could face a significant seismic event.
The unusual cluster of tremors, recorded over a single night in eastern Tehran province, has intensified concerns about the accumulated tectonic pressure beneath and around the city, which is situated near several active fault lines.
While seismic activity is common in the region, it is rare for multiple tremors to occur consecutively.
These recent quakes were felt close to the Mosha fault, one of Iran’s most active seismic zones. State media confirmed that one of the earthquakes registered a magnitude of 4.6, though the mild activity caused no reported casualties or material damage.
Seismologist Mehdi Zare, cited by semi-official Mehr news, stated that it remains uncertain whether these tremors represent a beneficial release of built-up seismic energy, thereby reducing future risk, or if they serve as ominous warning signs of more powerful future activity along the fault system near Tehran.
Zare warned that Tehran’s vulnerability is amplified not only by active fault lines but also by dense urban development, population concentration and limited preparedness.
He said even relatively small earthquakes can cause disruption in the capital due to fragile infrastructure and congestion, complicating emergency response.
Tehran, a metropolitan area of more than 14 million people, lies near major active faults including the North Tehran, Mosha and Rey fault systems. Iranian experts have repeatedly warned that a major earthquake near the capital could have catastrophic consequences.
Iran is among the world’s most earthquake-prone countries, and memories remain vivid of the 2003 Bam earthquake, which killed more than 30,000 people.
The news comes as Donald Trump is making his way to China to hold landmark talks with President Xi Jinping including on how to bring an end to the war in Iran and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
It comes during a critical juncture in attempts to end the US-Israeli war on Iran, amid growing fears that a temporary ceasefire could collapse if a long-term agreement is not found in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, The New York Times reports that Iran has restored operational access to 30 of its 33 missile sites along the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran has effectively blocked the vital oil waterway during the war.
Trump lashed out at the US media, accusing it of “virtual treason” after it reported on American intelligence indicating that Iran retains substantial missile capabilities.
