Israel-US joint strikes on Iran on February 28, 2026: Trump declares "major combat operations," focusing on nuclear power plants and leadership. Iran launches missiles against US and Israeli bases in retaliation; Tehran explodes, and Gulf airspace is shut off. Real-time updates on the regional impact, escalation, and Trump's push for regime change.
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| Smoke rises following an explosion, after Israel and the U.S. launched strikes on Iran, in Tehran, Iran, February 28, 2026 | Photo Credit: via Reuters |
The Middle East is currently experiencing one of its most dangerous periods in decades. Israel and the United States conducted coordinated, massive military strikes on Iran on Saturday morning, February 28, 2026, hitting missile facilities, leadership compounds, military installations, and nuclear-related infrastructure. Israel's "pre-emptive" operation to "remove threats to the State of Israel" swiftly turned into what U.S. President Donald Trump referred to as "major combat operations" with the goal of destroying Iran's military capabilities, stopping the country from acquiring nuclear weapons, and—most remarkably—promoting regime change.
Shortly after daybreak local time, explosions lit up the skies over Tehran and other major cities, including Isfahan, Qom, Karaj, and Kermanshah. In nearby areas of University Street, the Jomhouri neighborhood, and locations associated with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, smoke plumes soared over downtown Tehran. Residents described strong explosions that rocked buildings and sent them rushing for safety as Iranian television reported several waves of strikes. According to some sources, Khamenei's home and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' (IRGC) command centers were among the first targets.
Israel Katz, the Israeli minister of defense, declared, "The State of Israel has launched a pre-emptive attack against Iran to remove threats to the State of Israel." Fighter jets struck "dozens of military targets" in coordinated operations as the Israeli military verified months of "close and joint planning" with the United States. As a preemptive alert warned of potential impending Iranian missiles, air raid sirens sounded throughout Israel.
"A short time ago, the United States military began major combat operations in Iran," President Trump said in a video that was uploaded on Truth Social, confirming American involvement. Our goal is to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon in order to protect the American people by removing the Iranian regime's immediate threats." He went farther, portraying the strikes as a chance for internal revolt and calling on Iranians to "take over your government" and overthrow their leaders. According to reports, the U.S. operation, which the Department of Defense has dubbed "Epic Fury," is anticipated to last for many days and will continue in waves that target leadership, naval assets, and missile production.
Iran reacted quickly. A "first large-scale wave" of retaliatory drones and ballistic missiles targeting Israel and American assets around the region has been declared by the Revolutionary Guards. As Iron Dome and other defenses stopped incoming fire, there were reports of explosions in northern Israel. Additionally, Iranian missiles hit a U.S. military installation in Bahrain; smoke plumes were visible, and explosions were heard in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi (UAE). It was mentioned that two missiles were intercepted over Qatar.
All flights to places in West Asia were halted by Air India and IndiGo. Employees at the US embassies in Bahrain and Qatar were told to stay home.
Iran's leadership promised a "decisive" and "powerful" defense of the country after Khamenei allegedly relocated to a safe area. In remarks, foreign ministers called the ongoing negotiations a betrayal that crushed diplomatic hopes and accused the United States and Israel of aggression.
This increase comes after the 12-day air battle in June 2025, during which American-Israeli strikes destroyed Iran's nuclear installations in Natanz, Fordow, and Esfahan. Even though indirect Geneva negotiations showed "some progress," there were still significant differences: Tehran insisted on peaceful rights and sanctions relief, while Washington demanded thorough dismantling and zero enrichment. The USS Gerald R. Ford carrier group was part of the U.S. military buildup, which indicated preparedness in case diplomacy failed.
Trump's words about regime change, which is similar of his "maximum pressure" during his first term but now supported by direct military action, is a significant shift. Critics warn of unexpected repercussions, including global economic shock, oil price hikes, civilian losses, and proxy activation (Hezbollah, Houthis, and Iraqi militias).
The world holds its breath as explosions reverberate throughout the Gulf and alarms continue to sound in Israel. The number of casualties is yet unknown due to contradictory reports. Oman and Qatar have tense diplomatic relations. Momentum favors escalation despite calls for caution from the UN and allies.
Every update is being followed by REAL BREAKING NEWS, including the effects of the strike, Iranian retaliation, global responses, and the possibility of a wider conflict. One thing can be seen in this volatile situation: the rules of engagement in West Asia have abruptly changed.
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