In a dramatic escalation of Middle East tensions, the United States and Israel launched coordinated military operations against Iranian targets on February 28, 2026. The strikes, targeting senior Iranian military leadership, prompted immediate retaliatory missile attacks across the region, creating one of the most perilous security situations in recent years.
According to Reuters reports, Iranian defense systems engaged incoming projectiles as explosions were documented in multiple countries. Iranian state media claimed at least 40 casualties from an airstrike on a school facility, though these figures remain unverified through independent channels. Three confidential sources confirmed the deaths of Iran’s defense minister and a high-ranking Revolutionary Guards commander in Israeli operations.
The operation, codenamed “Operation Epic Fury” by the Pentagon, specifically targeted Iranian leadership following the collapse of nuclear negotiations earlier this week. In a video address via Truth Social, U.S. President Donald Trump characterized the mission as necessary to prevent Iranian nuclear weapon development and eliminate “immediate threats.”
“Bombs will be dropping everywhere,” President Trump declared, advising Iranian citizens to seek shelter while simultaneously encouraging them to overthrow their governing authorities. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu similarly suggested the military action might empower Iranian citizens to “take their destiny into their own hands.”
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards issued a stern warning that all U.S. bases and regional interests remain vulnerable to continued retaliation, condemning the initial strikes as unlawful aggression. Defense systems reportedly intercepted numerous missiles directed toward Israel and several Gulf nations hosting U.S. military installations.