Israel and US Launch Strikes on Iran, Escalating Middle East Conflict
A full-blown conflict has erupted in West Asia after Israel and the US launched coordinated strikes against targets within Iran on Saturday, February 28, 2026. The operation, dubbed ‘Roar of the Lion’ by Israel, has prompted a swift counter-attack from Iran, with a barrage of missiles directed towards Israel .
Background to the Conflict
The attacks follow a period of heightened tensions and stalled negotiations regarding Iran’s nuclear and missile programs. Former US President Donald Trump expressed frustration with Iran’s stance during these negotiations, stating that the goal of the military action was “eliminating imminent threats” from Iran . Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz characterized the strikes as a “preventive strike.”
Targets of the Initial Strikes
Initial reports indicate that the strikes targeted multiple Iranian cities, including Isfahan, Qom, Lorestan, Karaj, Kermanshah, Tabriz and the capital, Tehran . Explosions were reported in several districts of Tehran, with some reports indicating the use of Tomahawk missiles . The first strikes appeared to target Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei .
Iranian Retaliation and Regional Impact
In response to the attacks, Iran launched missile and drone attacks targeting northern Israel and US military bases across the Middle East . Reportedly targeted locations include the 5th Fleet support center in Bahrain, a base in Iraqi Kurdistan, Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, Ali Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait, Al Dhafra Air Base in the UAE, Muwaffaq Al Salti Air Base in Jordan, and Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia . Israeli media reported approximately 35 missiles were launched toward Israel, resulting in at least one injury .
Recent History of Conflict
This marks Israel’s second major military campaign against Iran in less than a year. In June 2025, a 12-day conflict saw the Israel Defense Forces, in cooperation with the US military, conduct a bombing campaign targeting Iranian military and nuclear facilities, resulting in the deaths of senior military commanders, government officials, and nuclear scientists .
Casualties and Ongoing Situation
Details regarding casualties and damage in both Iran and Israel remain limited. Tragically, reports indicate that seventy students were killed in an Israeli airstrike on a girls’ primary school in Minab, southern Iran . The situation remains highly volatile, with Iranian officials vowing a “decisive” and potentially prolonged response, raising fears of further escalation across the Middle East .