US and Israel Launch Major Strikes on Iran, Raising Fears of Wider Conflict
Amman, Jordan – In a significant escalation of tensions, the United States and Israel launched a joint military operation against targets in Iran on Saturday, February 28, 2026. The strikes, codenamed Roaring Lion by Israel and Operation Shield of Judah and Operation Epic Fury by the US Department of War [1], targeted locations across Iran, sparking retaliatory strikes and raising concerns about a wider regional conflict.
Initial Strikes and Targets
The first reported strikes appeared to target a compound in downtown Tehran believed to be the residence of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei [1]. Explosions and smoke were reported in multiple cities, including Tehran, as Israel announced a “pre-emptive” strike [2]. Reports indicate strikes also occurred in the United Arab Emirates, Iraq, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Jordan, and Israel [3].
Civilian Impact and Iranian Response
The Iranian government reported that a missile struck an elementary school in Minab city, Hormozgan province, resulting in the deaths of at least 40 students [1]. Two students were also killed in a strike in Tehran [3]. Residents in Tehran described scenes of panic as people rushed home and children were evacuated from schools, with communications being cut off in some areas [1].
Iran responded to the attacks by launching strikes against Israel and U.S. Bases in the Gulf. Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi, a spokesman for the Iranian military, stated that Iran would “teach America and Israel a big lesson” [1]. An Iranian airstrike reportedly hit the U.S. Naval base in Bahrain, home to the U.S. Fifth Fleet [3]. The United Arab Emirates intercepted Iranian missiles, with shrapnel killing one national of an unspecified Asian country in Abu Dhabi [3]. Jordan reported intercepting two ballistic missiles [3].
Diplomatic Fallout and International Reactions
Iran’s foreign ministry stated that the U.S. And Israeli airstrikes hit both defense infrastructure and civilian sites across the country [1]. Tehran called for an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council to discuss the attacks, noting that the strikes occurred whereas diplomatic negotiations aimed at preventing war were underway. Oman’s foreign minister, who mediated recent U.S.-Iran talks, traveled to Washington on Friday to brief U.S. Officials [1].
Trump’s Response and Calls for Regime Change
U.S. President Donald Trump announced the start of “major combat operations” and issued a direct appeal to the Iranian people, urging them to “take over your government” [1]. He stated that this may be their “only chance for generations” [1].
Ongoing Situation
The situation remains highly volatile, with ongoing military operations and the potential for further escalation. The extent of support for the current Iranian regime is unclear, particularly following recent crackdowns on protests [1]. There is no clear successor to Iran’s leadership, and opposition groups remain divided [1].