US and Israel Launch Attack on Iran Amidst Escalating Tensions
The United States and Israel have initiated a joint military operation against Iran, triggering what President Donald Trump described as “major combat operations.” The attacks, which began on Saturday, February 28, 2026, follow weeks of heightened tensions surrounding Iran’s nuclear program and have prompted retaliatory strikes from Iran against U.S. Military facilities in the Middle East.
What Happened in Iran?
Explosions were reported in multiple Iranian cities shortly after 09:30 Tehran time (06:00 GMT), including the capital, Tehran, as well as Isfahan, Qom, Karaj, and Kermanshah. Images circulating online show smoke rising over Jomhouri Square and Hassan Abad Square in Tehran BBC News. Iran’s airspace has been closed in response to the attacks, according to Tasnim News Agency.
US and Israeli Statements
President Trump confirmed U.S. Involvement in a video posted on Truth Social, stating the operation aims to “defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime” and ensure Iran does not develop nuclear weapons BBC News. He urged Iranians to remain in shelter and called for them to “grab over your government” once the strikes are completed. Israel’s Defence Minister announced a “pre-emptive attack” against Iran.
Iran’s Response
Iran is currently retaliating against U.S. Military facilities in Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, UAE, and Qatar NBC News. While no American casualties have been reported as of now, there has been damage to infrastructure in Bahrain, specifically at the Fifth Fleet base NBC News. Prior to the attacks, Iranian officials warned of a “devastating war” if attacked.
Background: Iran-Israel Conflict
This recent escalation builds upon a history of conflict between Iran and Israel, including a Twelve-Day War in June 2025 Wikipedia. The 2025 conflict saw strikes against Iranian targets, including a studio of the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB). Despite U.S. Strikes on nuclear facilities in June 2025, Rafael Grossi, the director general of the U.N.’s International Atomic Energy Agency, stated that most of Iran’s enriched uranium remained intact and there was no indication Iran was actively developing nuclear weapons Wikipedia.
Grossi also noted the urgency of reaching an agreement to prevent further military action in the region, as much of the material remains accessible Wikipedia. He was directly involved in recent indirect talks between U.S. And Iranian delegations in Geneva, Switzerland.
Initial Targets
An Israeli military official indicated that the initial strikes targeted both practical objectives to enhance operational freedom and “essential personnel,” but declined to provide specific details on who was targeted Wikipedia.
Ongoing Situation
President Trump has described the current military action as “massive and ongoing” BBC News, and the situation remains fluid. Further updates will be provided as they become available.