The Middle East entered a dangerous new phase as the United States and Israel launched coordinated strikes against Iran’s military and nuclear infrastructure. President Trump framed the operation as preemptive and aimed at dismantling Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities while encouraging internal regime change.
Iran quickly retaliated with missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and U.S. assets across the Gulf. Regional airspace disruptions, international condemnation, and rising market volatility highlight fears of a broader regional conflict. The situation remains fluid, with further escalation possible.
The US and Israel launched major strikes on Iran’s nuclear and military sites. Trump says the goal is ending Iran’s nuclear threat and weakening the regime. Iran retaliated with regional missile attacks. Airspace closed, markets dipped, and escalation fears grow. #Israel #Iran pic.twitter.com/O7RO9jHUGq
— Matthew Brady (@mattbrady775) February 28, 2026
- The United States and Israel launched coordinated air and missile strikes against Iran early Saturday, targeting military infrastructure, nuclear-related facilities, missile production sites, naval assets, and reported leadership compounds.
- President Donald Trump announced the campaign, named “Operation Epic Fury,” stating its goals are eliminating Iran’s nuclear program, crippling missile capabilities, and enabling regime change.
- Strikes were reported in Tehran, Isfahan, Qom, Karaj, and Kermanshah. Satellite imagery reportedly showed damage near facilities associated with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei; his status remains unclear.
- Israeli officials claim senior members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps may have been killed.
- Iran retaliated with missile and drone barrages toward Israel and U.S. military facilities in the region, including assets tied to the United States Fifth Fleet in Bahrain.
- Explosions and interceptions were reported across Gulf states; at least one fatality was reported in Abu Dhabi from debris.
- Airspace closures, airline suspensions, and market volatility followed. Russia condemned the strikes as “unprovoked aggression.”
- Military exchanges are ongoing, with escalation risks across the region.
