US and Israel Launch Major Attack on Iran, Trump Calls for Regime Change

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — The United States and Israel launched a major attack on Iran on Saturday, February 28, 2026, with former President Donald Trump urging Iranians to overthrow their government. The attacks targeted military and government sites, sparking threats of retaliation from Iran and reports of incoming missiles and drones across the region.

Trump Calls for Overthrow of Iranian Government

In a video statement, Trump called on the Iranian public to “take over your government,” stating, “This may be your only chance in generations.” He also offered “immunity” to Iranian security forces who laid down their arms, warning those who continued fighting would face “certain death.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed this sentiment, calling on all groups within Iranian society – Persians, Kurds, Azeris, Baluchis, and Ahwazis – to “free themselves from the shackles of tyranny and create a free and peaceful Iran.”

Indonesia Offers to Mediate

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has expressed his readiness to facilitate dialogue to de-escalate the situation, according to the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. “If agreed by both parties, the Indonesian President is willing to go to Tehran to mediate,” the Ministry stated.

Details of the Attacks

Explosions were reported in multiple Iranian cities shortly after 09:30 Tehran time (13:00 WIB), including Isfahan, Qom, Karaj, Kermanshah, and the capital, Tehran. Targets included the office of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the presidential office. Military installations in several regions were also reportedly struck, including a Revolutionary Guard Corps base in Kamyaran, Kurdistan province.

Iran’s airspace was closed following the attacks. Reports indicate mixed reactions from Iranian citizens, with some expressing panic and others demonstrating relief and hope for regime change.

Iran’s Retaliation

Iran responded by launching missiles towards Israel. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported intercepting the missiles and acting against any threats. Explosions were heard in Haifa and other locations in Israel, prompting authorities to close the country’s airspace to civil flights and advise citizens to remain indoors.

News agency Tasnim, affiliated with the Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), claimed that all US bases and interests in the region had been targeted by Iranian missiles. Reports emerged of attacks in Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan, targeting US military installations.

Trump Announces “Major Combat Operations”

President Trump announced the launch of “major combat operations” against Iran, accusing the Iranian regime of an “endless campaign of bloodshed and mass murder.” He stated the US aims to destroy Iran’s missile industry and navy, acknowledging the potential for American casualties. ABC News

Failed Nuclear Talks

The attacks occurred despite ongoing, albeit unsuccessful, indirect nuclear talks between the US, and Iran. The third round of talks, held in Geneva, Switzerland on February 26, 2026, failed to produce a breakthrough. Previous negotiations in May 2025 also yielded no progress, and a sixth round scheduled for June 2025 was canceled after Israel launched prior attacks on Iranian targets, leading to a 12-day conflict.

Indonesia’s Concerns

The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed regret over the failure of negotiations between the US and Iran, leading to military escalation. Indonesia called for restraint from all parties and emphasized the importance of respecting sovereignty and resolving differences peacefully. The Ministry urged Indonesian citizens in the affected areas to remain calm and follow local authorities’ instructions. AP News