A moderate earthquake struck the Iranian capital Tehran late Tuesday night, according to the United States Geological Survey USGS and Iranian state media.
The USGS reported that the earthquake measured magnitude 4.3 and occurred at about 11:46 pm local time. Iranian state broadcaster IRIB, however, placed the magnitude slightly higher at 4.6.
According to reports, the earthquake’s epicentre was located near the Pardis area east of Tehran at a depth of about 10 kilometres. Residents in several surrounding areas reportedly felt the tremor, including parts of Karaj, a suburb located roughly 40 kilometres west of the capital.
There were no immediate reports of deaths, injuries, or major structural damage following the earthquake. Emergency authorities continue to monitor the situation while assessments are being carried out in affected communities.
Iran remains one of the most earthquake prone countries in the world because of its location along the convergence zone of the Arabian and Eurasian tectonic plates. The country experiences frequent seismic activity, with many earthquakes occurring at shallow depths, increasing the risk of destruction and casualties.
Over the years, Iran has suffered several devastating earthquakes that caused significant loss of life and damage to infrastructure. One of the deadliest was the 1990 Rudbar Tarom earthquake which measured magnitude 7.4 and ed more than 40,000 people.
Another major disaster occurred in 2003 when a magnitude 6.6 earthquake struck the historic city of Bam, ing more than 26,000 people and destroying large sections of the city.
Experts continue to warn that Tehran, home to millions of residents, remains vulnerable to stronger earthquakes due to its dense population and expanding urban infrastructure.
Authorities have repeatedly called for improved building standards and disaster preparedness measures to reduce the impact of future seismic events in the country.
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