2026 Israeli-United States Strikes on Iran: A Deep Dive

On February 28, 2026, Israel and the United States launched a joint military operation against Iran, marking a significant escalation in Middle Eastern tensions. The operation, which President Donald Trump described as “major combat operations,” targeted Iranian leadership sites and military infrastructure, prompting retaliatory strikes from Tehran and raising fears of a wider regional conflict.

The Initial Strikes and Targets

The attacks began with Israeli strikes on Saturday morning, targeting key locations in Tehran, including areas near the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s compound, the presidential palace, and facilities related to Iran’s nuclear program. Targets included the Atomic Energy Organization, the ministries of defense and intelligence, and a military complex. Explosions were as well reported in other Iranian cities, including Isfahan, Karaj, Kermanshah, Qom, and Urmia.

President Trump outlined a strategy aimed at dismantling Iran’s military and nuclear capabilities, as well as its support for regional proxies. He stated the intention to “destroy their missiles and raze their missile industry to the ground,” “annihilate their navy,” and “ensure that Iran does not obtain a nuclear weapon.” He also directly appealed to the Iranian people to “take over your government,” stating, “the hour of your freedom is at hand.”

Iranian Retaliation and Regional Impact

Iran responded swiftly, launching missile barrages targeting Israel and U.S. Bases across the region, including in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Iraq, and Jordan. Residents in Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon reported seeing missiles fly overhead en route to Israel.

The attacks led to widespread airspace closures across the region, with numerous airlines suspending service to affected countries. Iran reportedly limited its response to U.S. Military bases in the region, asserting its actions were in self-defense.

Casualties and Damage

Reports indicate casualties on both sides. At least 53 civilians were killed in an Israeli airstrike on a girls’ school in Minab, Iran, with dozens more injured. One civilian was killed in Abu Dhabi by falling debris from an intercepted missile. In Iran, two students were killed in a strike in Tehran, and four were killed and several wounded in Suwayda. The United States reported 5 personnel injured, and one Israeli citizen was also injured.

International Response and Diplomatic Efforts

The strikes drew immediate reactions from world leaders. Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi expressed dismay that negotiations aimed at de-escalation had been undermined, stating that “neither the interests of the United States nor the cause of global peace are well served by this.” He urged the United States not to become further involved, characterizing the conflict as “not your war.”

In the United States, the attacks sparked debate on Capitol Hill, with some Democrats and Republicans questioning the administration’s decision to proceed without congressional authorization. Senator Mark Warner (D-Va.) criticized the lack of scrutiny and deliberation, while Representative Ro Khanna (D-Fremont) called for a congressional vote to halt further action. Other lawmakers, such as Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), defended the strikes as necessary to protect American interests.

Ongoing Situation

As of February 28, 2026, the situation remains fluid and ongoing. The scale of the damage and the full extent of casualties are still unclear due to a “near total” internet blackout and widespread cyberattacks in Iran, hindering information gathering. The conflict represents a significant escalation in the Middle Eastern crisis and raises concerns about a potential protracted war in the region.