Iran Strikes Israel and US Bases in Retaliation for Regional Attacks
On Friday, March 20, 2026, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched a series of strikes targeting Israel and US military bases in the Middle East, escalating tensions in the region. The attacks were presented by Iran as retaliation for a joint military operation conducted by the United States and Israel on February 28, which resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the bombing of a girls’ school in southern Iran.
Details of the Attacks
According to Iranian state television, the IRGC successfully hit 25 targets in Haifa and Tel Aviv using Kheibar Shekan, Zolfaghar, and Qadr missiles, along with drones. The strikes reportedly disrupted Israel’s air defense systems. Sputnik International reported that the operation, dubbed “True Promise 4,” involved multiple warheads.
In addition to the strikes in Israel, dozens of Iranian drones targeted US military bases throughout the Middle East. Sputnik International
Previous Attacks and Escalation
The recent attacks follow a series of escalating tensions. Earlier, on March 8, 2026, the IRGC claimed responsibility for a missile strike on an Israeli refinery in Haifa, likewise in retaliation for US-Israeli attacks on Iranian energy facilities. IBTimes Singapore reported that Kheibarshekan missiles were used in that attack. Oil depots in Tehran and Alborz were also reportedly hit during previous attacks. IBTimes Singapore
Further strikes targeted Haifa’s oil refinery and Ashdod, with the IRGC stating that these were “pinpoint” missile strikes against security targets and military support centers. The Nightly reported that power was briefly disrupted in Haifa, but quickly restored.
Motivations and Context
The US and Israel initially justified their February 28 operation as a preemptive measure to counter Iran’s nuclear program, but later indicated a desire for regime change in Iran. Sputnik International reports that Iran has accused the US and Israel of seeking to destabilize the country. Iran’s death toll from the initial attacks is reported to be over 1,300.
Further Developments
The Pentagon is reportedly seeking $200 billion to fund the ongoing conflict with Iran, as costs continue to surge. Sputnik International