US and Israel Launch Strikes on Iran, Sparking Regional Retaliation

A joint US-Israeli military operation targeting Iran’s political and military leaders, as well as its nuclear and ballistic missile programs, has triggered a wave of retaliatory strikes across the Middle East. The attacks, which commenced on February 28, 2026, have raised concerns about regional stability and prompted cautious responses from European allies.

Trump Announces Khamenei’s Death, Iran Disputes Claim

Former US President Donald Trump announced on his Truth Social platform that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed during the predawn strikes. NBC News reports that Iranian state media has disputed this claim. Trump characterized Khamenei as “one of the most evil people in history” and urged Iranians to “capture over your government,” stating, “The hour of your freedom is at hand.”

Joint US-Israeli Offensive and Iranian Response

The US launched “major combat operations” in Iran, with Israel participating in targeting Iranian political and military leaders. NBC News indicates that the US focused on dismantling Iran’s ballistic missile and nuclear programs. In response, Iran launched missiles at Israel and US bases in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan, escalating tensions throughout the region.

International Reactions and Limited European Involvement

While deeply concerned about the potential for externally imposed regime change, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom have exercised caution in their public statements. In a joint statement, the leaders of these nations reaffirmed their “commitment to regional stability and to the protection of civilian life,” but refrained from further comment or calls for restraint. They confirmed they did not directly participate in the strikes but remain in close contact with the US, Israel, and regional partners.

Echoes of the Twelve-Day War

The current situation bears similarities to the Twelve-Day War of June 2025, which saw initial Israeli strikes against Iran and its nuclear program. During that conflict, French President Emmanuel Macron initially questioned the legality of the strikes before ultimately appearing to support them, noting their effectiveness in reducing Iran’s enrichment and ballistic capabilities.

Casualties and Damage

The Iranian Red Crescent has reported over 200 deaths and approximately 700 injuries as a result of the strikes. NBC News reports that one strike in southern Iran reportedly killed scores of students in an elementary school, according to state media. In Israel, one person was killed and 121 others injured in retaliatory strikes, with a significant number of injuries occurring in Tel Aviv following a direct missile hit.

UAE Intercepts Missiles and Drones

The military of the United Arab Emirates announced it intercepted over 130 ballistic missiles and nearly 200 drones in response to the US and Israeli strikes. NBC News reported this information, highlighting the widespread impact of Iran’s retaliatory actions.

Iran Signals Willingness to Negotiate

Despite the escalating conflict, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated Iran’s interest in de-escalation and a willingness to engage in talks if the US and Israel halt their attacks. He dismissed Trump’s call for regime change as “mission impossible.”