US and Israel Launch Attack on Iran, Supreme Leader Reportedly Killed

In a joint operation dubbed “OPERATION EPIC FURY” by the Pentagon, the United States and Israel launched a military attack on Iran on Saturday, February 28, 2026. The strikes, focused on key Iranian leaders, are intended to destabilize and potentially overthrow the current government, according to President Donald Trump.

Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei Confirmed Dead

Iranian state broadcaster IRIB confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, a claim subsequently affirmed by President Trump on social media. Israeli sources, as reported by USA TODAY, Reuters, and CNN, stated that Khamenei’s body had been recovered. Iranian state media outlets later confirmed his death, with the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting announcing “The Supreme Leader of Iran Has Reached Martyrdom.”

Details of the Attack

The attacks began in the capital city of Tehran in the early hours of Saturday morning ET. Both the US and Israel claimed responsibility for the initial strikes, which were followed by bombings in multiple cities across Iran. The extent of the damage and casualties remains largely unclear at this time.

Trump’s Statements and Objectives

In an eight-minute speech posted to Truth Social, Trump announced the “major combat operations,” referencing previous warnings issued after attacks on three separate nuclear facilities in Iran last June. He stated that repeated attempts to negotiate a deal regarding Iran’s nuclear program had been unsuccessful. Trump likewise directly addressed Iranian troops and civilians, urging the former to lay down their weapons and offering immunity, although advising the latter to remain at home and prepare to “take over your government.”

International Response and Retaliation

Iran has retaliated by firing missiles at Israel, as well as at U.S. Bases across the region in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan, causing widespread disruption. Dubai International Airport sustained minor damage from Iranian drone strikes, with some staff sustaining injuries CNN.

Diplomatic Efforts and Future Outlook

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated Iran’s willingness to de-escalate the situation and engage in talks if the U.S. And Israel halt their attacks, according to an interview with NBC News. Although, President Trump has called for regime change, stating that “the hour of your freedom is at hand.”

Key Takeaways

• A joint US-Israel military operation has targeted Iran, aiming to topple the current government.
• Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has been confirmed dead.
• Iran has retaliated with missile strikes against Israel and U.S. Bases in the region.
• Diplomatic efforts are underway, but the situation remains highly volatile.

Sources: NBC News, CNN, Wikipedia, BBC News