US and Israel Launch Strikes on Iran, Escalating Middle East Conflict

The United States and Israel launched coordinated military strikes against Iran on Saturday, February 28, 2026, following months of joint planning. The attacks targeted key Iranian figures and military sites, prompting a swift retaliatory response from Tehran, escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Operation Names and Strategic Significance

The United States has dubbed the assault “Operation Epic Fury,” while Israel’s operation is referred to as “The Lion’s Roar.” Israeli media reports the name is inspired by a previous operation in June 2025, termed “Rising Lion,” suggesting a continuation of strategic objectives. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu connected the operation’s name to a passage from the Book of Numbers (23:24), stating, “Behold, the people will arise like a great lion,” after placing a note with this inscription at the Western Wall in Jerusalem.

Targets of the Strikes

Israel stated its strikes specifically targeted Iran’s supreme leader, president and head of the armed forces. Explosions were reported in multiple Iranian cities, including Tehran, Kermanshah, Qum, Isfahan, Tabriz, Karaj, and at Iranian naval facilities in Kenarak. Reports indicate the office of Iran’s Supreme Leader and the presidential office in Tehran were also targeted. A residence in Tehran, where former president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad lives, was reportedly hit, though his status is currently unknown.

Iran’s Retaliation and Regional Impact

Iran responded to the attacks with an unprecedented wave of strikes toward Israel and US targets across the Middle East. Explosions were reported in the UAE, Bahrain, and Qatar, and a fatality was reported in Abu Dhabi due to shrapnel from an Iranian missile attack. Israel’s military reported multiple rounds of Iranian missile launches targeting the country.

Trump’s Response and Calls for Regime Change

President Donald Trump described the military campaign as “massive and ongoing,” warning that American lives may be lost. He called on Iranians to “take over your government” and accused Tehran of attempting to rebuild its nuclear program despite previous US strikes aimed at dismantling its nuclear facilities. Trump stated his objective is securing freedom and safety for the Iranian people.

Israeli Military Perspective

An Israeli military official clarified that the operation is not a “regime change operation,” but rather focused on military targets. However, the official stated that individuals involved in directing attacks, promoting violence, or executing plans to destroy Israel could be considered legitimate targets if they are part of the operational war machine. Leadership involvement in military aggression may place individuals within the target scope, but the emphasis remains on military objectives.

US Military Preparations

Prior to the strikes, the US military moved over a dozen naval ships and aircraft toward the Middle East as part of a pressure campaign on Iran and engagement in indirect nuclear talks with Iranian officials.

Sources:
CNN, CBS News, BBC News, AP News