US and Israel Launch Strikes on Iran, Sparking Retaliation and Regional Tensions

A joint military operation by the United States and Israel against Iran has triggered a wave of retaliatory strikes and heightened tensions across the Middle East. The attacks, described as a response to perceived threats, have prompted condemnation from Tehran and raised concerns about a wider regional conflict.

Joint US-Israel Operation

On Saturday, February 28, 2026, the US and Israel launched coordinated strikes targeting Iran. According to CNN sources, the operation involved months of “close and joint planning” and targeted Iran’s supreme leader, president, and head of the armed forces. The US is reportedly planning several days of continued attacks .

President Donald Trump characterized the military campaign as “massive and ongoing,” warning of potential American casualties and calling for regime change in Iran . He also accused Tehran of attempting to rebuild its nuclear program, despite previous US claims of having obliterated its facilities .

Iran’s Retaliatory Strikes

In response to the attacks, Iran launched an unprecedented wave of strikes toward Israel and US targets throughout the Middle East. Explosions were reported in several countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Qatar .

The BBC reports that the service center of the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet in Bahrain was subjected to a missile attack. Footage has emerged showing the moment a missile struck Bahrain, with explosions sending debris into the air. Tasnim news agency, affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, claimed that “all US bases and interests in the region have been targeted by Iranian missiles” .

International Reactions and Concerns

The Iranian Embassy in Jakarta, Indonesia, strongly condemned the attacks by the US and Israel, calling them “aggressive and criminal acts” against Iran’s territorial integrity . Iran views the actions as a violation of Article 2 paragraph (4) of the UN Charter and an act of aggression, asserting its right to respond under Article 51 of the UN Charter .

Iran has called on the UN Security Council to take immediate action regarding the aggression and has appealed to the Indonesian government and people for condemnation of the attacks .

Disrupted Air Travel

The escalating conflict has led to significant disruptions in air travel across the Middle East. Airlines, including Lufthansa, British Airways, and Virgin Atlantic, have cancelled or suspended flights to and from Tel Aviv, Bahrain, and Dubai, citing safety concerns .

Looking Ahead

The situation remains highly volatile, with the potential for further escalation. The US operation is expected to continue for several days, and the possibility of American casualties has been acknowledged. The international community is closely monitoring the developments and urging restraint to prevent a wider regional conflict.