U.S. and Israel Launch Coordinated Military Strikes on Iran

On February 28, 2026, the United States and Israel commenced a series of coordinated airstrikes on various targets within Iran, including the capital, Tehran. The operation, named "Operation Lion's Roar" by Israel and "Operation Epic Fury" by the United States, aimed at neutralizing perceived threats from Iran's nuclear program and regional activities.

The strikes targeted key military and nuclear facilities across multiple cities, including Isfahan, Kermanshah, Tabriz, Qom, Karaj, Khorramabad, Bandar Kangan, Bushehr, and the Konarak area near the Pakistani border. Notably, the compound of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran was heavily damaged. President Donald Trump announced that Khamenei was killed during the attack, though this claim has not been independently verified.

In response, Iran launched retaliatory strikes targeting U.S. military bases in Bahrain, Qatar, and Kuwait, as well as sites in Israel. Iranian officials declared that all American and Israeli assets in the Middle East had become legitimate targets.

The international community expressed concern over the escalation. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the military actions, warning of the risk of a broader conflict and urging a return to diplomatic negotiations. Russia labeled the strikes as an "unprovoked act of armed aggression" and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities.

The situation remains fluid, with potential implications for regional stability and global oil markets. Analysts warn that continued conflict could lead to significant disruptions in oil supply, potentially driving prices above $100 per barrel if key transit routes like the Strait of Hormuz are affected.