2026 Israeli-United States Strikes on Iran: Live Updates
Updated March 1, 2026, 8:00 AM ET – The United States and Israel are continuing military strikes against Iran following the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on February 28, 2026. The operation, which began with strikes targeting Iran’s missile capabilities, has escalated into a broader conflict with retaliatory attacks across the region.
Key Developments
- Supreme Leader Killed: Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in a joint U.S.-Israeli military operation, a move described by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian as a “declaration of war against Muslims.” CNN reports that President Donald Trump indicated the strikes would continue.
- Retaliatory Strikes: Iran has launched missiles and drones at Israel, as well as at targets across the region, including U.S. Military bases. Israel has responded with further strikes, reportedly targeting areas “in the heart of Tehran.” CBS News
- Regional Impact: The conflict has disrupted air travel, impacted oil shipments, and destabilized the Persian Gulf region. Several countries, including Bahrain, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, and the United Arab Emirates, are providing defensive support. The United Kingdom is providing logistical support. Wikipedia
- Russian Response: Russian President Vladimir Putin has condemned the killing of Khamenei as a “cynical murder” and a violation of international law, reaffirming Russia’s alliance with Iran. CNN
Belligerents
The primary belligerents are the United States and Israel against Iran. The Axis of Resistance, including groups like the Popular Mobilization Forces and Houthis, are aligned with Iran. Several countries are providing defensive support to the U.S. And Israel, although Russia supports Iran.
Commanders and Leaders
- United States/Israel: Donald Trump, Pete Hegseth, Dan Caine, Brad Cooper, Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel Katz, Eyal Zamir, Tomer Bar
- Iran: Ali Khamenei (deceased), Masoud Pezeshkian, Ali Larijani, Aziz Nasirzadeh, Abdolrahim Mousavi, Ali Shamkhani, Mohammad Pakpour
Ongoing Situation
As of March 1, 2026, the situation remains highly volatile. President Trump has stated that “heavy and pinpoint bombing” will continue “uninterrupted throughout the week or, as long as necessary.” CBS News Iranian President Pezeshkian has vowed to seek justice and retaliation for Khamenei’s death. CBS News The Strait of Hormuz is currently closed by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Wikipedia
Key Takeaways
- The death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has significantly escalated tensions between Iran and the U.S./Israel.
- Retaliatory strikes are ongoing, impacting regional stability and global oil markets.
- The conflict has drawn in multiple regional and international actors.