Israel attacks Iran in a major escalation of regional hostilities as explosions reportedly rocked Tehran and other Iranian cities starting 28 February 2026, in coordinated strikes involving the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the United States military.
Pre-emptive Strikes and Explosions in Tehran
On 28 February, Israel and U.S. forces launched a joint offensive against Iran’s military and strategic targets, code-named Operation Lion’s Roar / Operation Epic Fury, marking one of the largest direct military actions against Tehran in decades. Explosions were widely reported across the Iranian capital and other cities shortly after the strikes began, prompting international alarm.
Satellite imagery and eyewitness reports showed smoke plumes rising over populated districts of Tehran, with heavy damage to buildings and infrastructure.
Targets, Casualties, and High-Profile Deaths
The offensive targeted Iranian military bases, missile infrastructure, Revolutionary Guard command centers and key leadership figures. Iranian state media has confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several top security officials in the initial strikes—a development that has profound implications for Tehran’s political future.
According to emerging data:
Iranian casualties include hundreds killed or wounded, including civilians. US service members have been reported killed or wounded in clashes involving Iranian counter-strikes. Multiple nations in the Gulf region have experienced spillover effects from Iranian retaliatory missile and drone launches.
Iran’s Retaliation and Wider Regional Conflict
In response to the attacks, Iran has launched ballistic missiles and drones at Israeli territory and U.S. military bases across the Gulf region, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, leading to additional casualties and infrastructure damage.
Airspace closures and disruptions to Middle East commercial flights have been reported, with several countries shuttering their skies amid safety concerns.
Global Reaction and Diplomatic Fallout
World leaders have reacted with a mix of condemnation, concern, and calls for de-escalation:
The European Union has urged restraint. Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are debating defensive actions. The United Nations Security Council is scheduled to meet amid growing fear of a broader regional war.