US and Israel Launch Strikes on Iran, Khamenei Reportedly Killed

A joint military operation by the United States and Israel has targeted Iran, resulting in what both nations claim was the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The attacks, which began on February 28, 2026, have triggered retaliatory strikes from Iran and heightened tensions across the Middle East.

Internet Outage and Initial Reports

Following the initial strikes, Iran imposed a near-total internet shutdown, limiting the flow of information. Netblocks, an organization specializing in network blocking, reported an “almost complete Internet outage” . Reports indicate that Tehran was once again the target of air strikes, with significant destruction observed in the city center, including the collapse of a building.

Civilian Impact and Emergency Measures

Eyewitness accounts describe a surge in customers at supermarkets in Tehran, attempting to stock up on essential supplies like bread and water, though some items were already sold out. Long lines formed at gas stations as residents attempted to leave the capital. Schools were closed, and public transportation – buses and the metro – were offered free of charge to facilitate evacuation. Doctors and healthcare workers were placed on alert, with clinics preparing for round-the-clock operations and selected pharmacies remaining open 24/7 to treat war injuries free of charge.

Rocket Attack and Casualties

Explosions were reported in multiple cities across Iran, including Qom, Lorestan, Kermanshah, Karaj, and Tabriz, as well as near the cultural center of Isfahan, which houses a central nuclear facility. A particularly devastating rocket attack on a girls’ school in Minab, southern Iran, reportedly killed dozens of children, with around 170 students present at the time.

Retaliation and Regional Response

Iran responded to the attacks by launching missiles at US military bases in several countries, including Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan. The United Arab Emirates described the situation as a “historic moment” in the Middle East, citing a failure of world leaders to ensure regional stability.

Trump’s Statement and Calls for Regime Change

President Donald Trump announced the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Truth Social, calling him “one of the most evil people in history.” He also urged Iranians to “take over your government,” stating, “The hour of your freedom is at hand.”

De-escalation Efforts

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated Iran’s willingness to de-escalate and engage in talks if the US and Israel halted their attacks, stating that regime change was “mission impossible.”

Background: The Twelve-Day War

These recent events follow the Twelve-Day War between Israel and Iran, which took place from June 13 to June 24, 2025. That conflict involved the United States as a key ally of Israel, and saw participation from groups like the Houthis, with defensive support from Iraq, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar.