On February 28, 2026, the United States and Israel initiated coordinated military strikes against Iran, marking a significant escalation in regional tensions. The operation, codenamed “Operation Epic Fury” by the U.S. Department of Defense, aims to dismantle Iran’s military capabilities, neutralize its nuclear program, and potentially facilitate regime change in Tehran. Israeli officials described the action as a preemptive strike to eliminate threats to their national security.
President Donald Trump announced the commencement of “major combat operations” in a video message, emphasizing the need to protect American interests and urging Iranians to overthrow their government upon the operation’s conclusion. The strikes targeted key locations in Iranian cities including Tehran, Qom, Kermanshah, Isfahan, and Karaj, with reports of explosions near government buildings and the office of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was relocated to a secure site. Casualties remain unknown at this stage, though the conflict is described as ongoing.
In response, Iran launched a barrage of missiles and drones toward Israel, prompting air-raid sirens in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, northern and central Israel, and parts of Jordan. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirmed the initiation of retaliatory attacks, stating that they represent the “first wave” of a broader response. Iranian officials, including hardline parliamentarian Alaeddin Boroujerdi, vowed a “crushing” and “regret-inducing” retaliation with “no red lines,” utilizing all available capacities. Iran’s Ministry of Interior condemned the strikes as a violation of international law and established a national crisis management headquarters. Domestic measures include closing airspace, suspending stock market operations, shifting schools and universities to virtual learning, and placing hospitals on full alert. President Masoud Pezeshkian was confirmed safe by state media.
This development follows a previous Israeli attack on Iran in June 2025, known as the “12-day war,” and amid stalled nuclear negotiations. Israeli codenames for the current operation include “Roaring Lion” and “Operation Shield of Judah.” Global reactions on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) reflect polarized views, with some users anticipating domestic unrest in Western countries over the strikes, while others report real-time alerts and shelter activations in affected areas.
The situation remains fluid, with potential for further escalation. Stakeholders emphasize that viewpoints from media sources may carry inherent biases, and ongoing developments should be monitored through diverse, verified channels.
