Israel and US Launch Strikes Against Iran: Operation Roaring Lion

On February 28, 2026, Israel and the United States initiated a joint military operation, dubbed “Operation Roaring Lion,” targeting Iran. The strikes, aimed at crippling Iran’s ability to pose an existential threat, focused on facilities belonging to the Revolutionary Guards and the Basij, as well as ballistic missile sites.

Background and Objectives

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the commencement of the operation, stating its goal is to end the threat posed by the Ayatollah regime in Iran. For 47 years, the Iranian regime has reportedly called for the destruction of Israel and the United States, supported terrorist organizations across the Middle East, and pursued the development of nuclear weapons and a vast missile arsenal [Source: The Times of Israel].

Targets of the Strikes

The initial phase of Operation Roaring Lion targeted facilities of the Revolutionary Guards and the Basij, alongside ballistic missile sites that pose a threat to both Israel and US forces [Source: The Times of Israel]. Netanyahu indicated that the operation would continue “as long as necessary.”

Recent Events Leading to the Strikes

The strikes follow a reported mass slaughter of Iranian citizens by the Ayatollah regime last month, an event cited by Netanyahu as further evidence of the regime’s “murderous nature” [Source: The Times of Israel].

Political Implications for Netanyahu

The conflict with Iran comes at a critical juncture for Prime Minister Netanyahu, who is facing a potential budget deadline that could trigger new elections. The war is being leveraged to shore up domestic political support and potentially delay his corruption trial [Source: The Atlantic]. US President Donald Trump has publicly expressed support for Netanyahu, urging Israel’s President Isaac Herzog to postpone the trial so Netanyahu can focus on the war [Source: The Atlantic].

Further Attacks and Regional Impact

Following the initial strikes, new attacks were reported in Tehran, including an oil storage facility. Israel similarly reportedly attacked targets in central Beirut [Source: PBS]. Netanyahu has vowed “many surprises” in the next phase of the conflict [Source: PBS].

Netanyahu’s Warning

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned that the current operation will be “much more powerful” than a previous 12-day war against Iran in June [Source: The Independent].