US and Israel Launch Coordinated Strikes on Iran; Tehran Responds with Missile Attacks on US Bases
The United States and Israel initiated joint military operations targeting Iranian facilities, prompting Iran to retaliate with missile strikes on US bases in the Gulf region.
On February 28, 2026, the United States and Israel commenced coordinated military operations against Iran, targeting multiple cities including Tehran, Isfahan, Qom, Karaj, and Kermanshah. The offensive, referred to as "Operation Lion's Roar" by Israel and "Operation Epic Fury" by the United States, aimed to dismantle Iran's military capabilities and address concerns over its nuclear program.
In response, Iran launched missile strikes targeting US military installations across the Gulf region, including bases in Qatar, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain. The Iranian Foreign Ministry condemned the US-Israeli actions as a "pre-planned and unprovoked act of armed aggression" and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities.
The escalation has led to heightened security measures across the Middle East. Israel has reinforced its forces along borders with Lebanon and Syria, while Gulf nations such as Qatar and the UAE have closed their airspace and activated civil defense protocols.
International reactions have been swift. Russia's Foreign Ministry labeled the US-Israeli strikes as an "unprovoked act of armed aggression" and urged a return to diplomatic efforts. Lebanon's Foreign Minister, Youssef Rajji, appealed to Hezbollah to refrain from involvement to prevent further destabilization.
The situation remains fluid, with ongoing military engagements and diplomatic efforts underway to prevent further escalation.