US and Israel Launch Major Assault on Iran, Killing Supreme Leader

Tehran, Iran – In a stunning escalation of regional tensions, the United States and Israel launched a major joint military strike on Iran on Saturday, February 28, 2026, resulting in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The attacks targeted sites across Iran, including the compound housing Khamenei in downtown Tehran, and have prompted a retaliatory response from Iran.

Escalation and Objectives

The coordinated strikes follow weeks of escalating threats and tensions between Iran, the US, and Israel, particularly concerning Iran’s nuclear program. US President Donald Trump announced the beginning of “major combat operations in Iran,” stating the campaign aims “to prevent this exceptionally wicked, radical dictatorship from threatening America and our core national security interests.” The Times of Israel reports Trump indicated a goal to topple the current regime.

Key Targets and Casualties

Initial strikes focused on the office of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Targets also included Iran’s military infrastructure, symbols of government, and intelligence facilities. According to sources, several senior Revolutionary Guards commanders and political officials were killed, including Gen. Mohammad Pakpour, commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, and Iranian defense minister Aziz Nasirzadeh. President Masoud Pezeshkian was also reportedly targeted.

Iran’s Response

Iran has responded to the attacks by launching ballistic missiles and drones towards Israel, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Jordan. The BBC reports that on Sunday, Israel launched fresh attacks on “the heart of Tehran” as Iranian attacks continued across the region.

International Reaction and UN Security Council Meeting

The attacks have prompted an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council. Reuters reported the meeting was scheduled for Saturday. The US Ambassador reportedly engaged in a “fiery UN showdown” with an Iranian diplomat amid Operation Epic Fury. New York Post

Trump’s Call to the Iranian People

President Trump has urged the Iranian people to “take over your government” and seize control of their destiny. The Associated Press reports Trump called on Iranians to rise up against the Islamic leadership that has ruled the nation since 1979, framing the strikes as “the greatest chance” for change.

Operation Epic Fury

The US military has designated the operation as “Operation Epic Fury.” Footage released by U.S. Central Command shows missiles being launched from a U.S. Navy ship in support of the operation.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.