Israel and US Launch Strikes on Iran: Operation Lion’s Roar Escalates Middle East Tensions

Explosions rocked Iran on Saturday, February 28, 2026, as Israel, with reported backing from the United States, launched a preemptive strike against strategic locations. The operation, named “Lion’s Roar” by Israel and “Operation Epic Fury” by the US, marks a significant escalation in Middle East tensions.

What Was Targeted?

Initial reports indicate strikes around Pasteur Street in Tehran, near the Presidential Administration of Iran. Explosions were also reported in Isfahan, near a nuclear complex previously targeted in 2025, Kermanshah, home to an Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps base, and Shiraz, where Israel alleges Iran has an underground missile production facility. Most strikes occurred before 1pm Tehran time, according to LiveUA data.

US and Israeli Objectives

President Donald Trump stated the US objectives are to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon and to dismantle its long-range missile program. He also called on the Iranian people to “capture over your government.” Israel declared a state of emergency, warning citizens to remain near shelters in anticipation of potential Iranian retaliatory missile strikes.

US Military Assets in the Region

The US has approximately 40,000 troops in the Middle East, including significant naval forces. The USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier was reportedly positioned off the northern coast of Israel, whereas the USS Abraham Lincoln strike group was off the coast of Oman. These strike groups carry dozens of planes and helicopters, including F-18s, E-2 airborne early warning aircraft, and F-35 jets. The US has also deployed additional Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) and Patriot air-defence systems.

The US maintains eight permanent bases in the Middle East, located in Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, with access to additional military sites in several other countries. Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar serves as the headquarters for US Central Command.

Iran’s Response

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards force claimed to have hit US bases in Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, as well as “military and security centres” in Israel. Verified footage showed an explosion at the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet base in Juffair, Bahrain. Qatar reported intercepting Iranian missile attacks, while Saudi Arabia and Kuwait also reported being targeted.

Iran launched salvos against Israel, but most missiles were intercepted by air defenses. However, missile fragments caused some injuries. Iran has a substantial arsenal of ballistic and cruise missiles, and has demonstrated an ability to fine-tune the timing of attacks to maximize effectiveness.

Potential for Wider Conflict

Analysts suggest Iran could consider mining the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping lane for global energy supplies, though this could provoke a response from China. Some ships reportedly turned back from the strait after receiving warnings from Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps. Iran could also target energy infrastructure in the region or utilize allied militias to attack regional targets.

Impact on Oil Markets

Brent crude rose as much as 3% on Friday, February 27, 2026, reaching a seven-month high of $73 a barrel. The international benchmark has increased nearly 12% in the past month due to concerns about potential supply disruptions. Iran exports approximately 2% of global oil supply and exerts influence over the Strait of Hormuz, through which about 30% of the world’s seaborne oil trade passed in 2025.