U.S. And Israel Launch Major Attack on Iran as Trump Calls for Regime Change

A joint U.S.-Israel operation targeting Iran commenced on Saturday, February 28, 2026, prompting threats of retaliation from Tehran and raising concerns about a wider conflict in the Middle East. President Donald Trump has directly called on the Iranian people to “accept over your government,” signaling a potential shift in U.S. Policy towards Iran.

Details of the Strikes

The attacks, described as “massive and ongoing” by President Trump, targeted military and government sites within Iran according to officials. Specifically, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian were reportedly targeted according to three sources briefed on the operation. The operation could potentially last for days .

Trump’s Statement and Objectives

In a video statement, President Trump stated the objective of the operation is to “defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime,” which he characterized as a “vicious group of very hard, terrible people” . He also expressed hope that the action would provide an opportunity for Iranians to overthrow their current rulers . Trump acknowledged the possibility of American casualties .

Iranian Response and Regional Impact

Iran has vowed retaliation for the strikes and reports indicate incoming missiles and drones have been detected in the region . Several Arab states hosting U.S. Forces are also monitoring the situation closely . The United Arab Emirates has already reported one civilian death due to Iranian missile strikes . Oman’s foreign minister has urged the United States to avoid further escalation .

Ongoing Developments

The situation remains fluid, with further waves of missiles being launched from Iran towards Israel . U.S. Officials have reported intercepting Iranian missiles targeting bases and allies .