On February 28, 2026, the Middle East witnessed a dramatic escalation as the United States and Israel launched coordinated military strikes on Iran. Explosions were reported across major Iranian cities, including the capital Tehran, Isfahan, Karaj, Kermanshah, and Qom. Iranian media and eyewitnesses described plumes of smoke rising over downtown Tehran, with strikes reportedly targeting military installations, strategic sites, and areas near the office of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Khamenei has been moved to a secure location for safety, according to reports.
Israel's Defense Minister Israel Katz described the operation as a "pre-emptive strike" aimed at neutralizing imminent threats to the State of Israel, including potential missile and drone attacks from Iran. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) codenamed the mission "Operation Shield of Judah." Israel immediately declared a nationwide state of emergency, with air-raid sirens blaring across the country. Civilians were urged to seek shelter in safe rooms or designated bunkers, amid warnings of possible Iranian retaliation involving missiles and UAVs.
US President Donald Trump confirmed American involvement in a video statement, announcing that the US military had initiated "major combat operations" in Iran. A US official told Al Jazeera that the strikes were part of a joint US-Israel military effort. The US has significantly bolstered its presence in the region, with fighter jets, warships, and aircraft carriers positioned to pressure Iran over its nuclear program. Trump emphasized that the actions were intended to eliminate threats from the Iranian regime and prevent it from rebuilding nuclear capabilities or endangering American lives.
Iran responded swiftly by closing its entire airspace, canceling all flights, and preparing for what officials described as "crushing retaliation." Air raid sirens echoed in parts of Israel as well, with sensitive areas being evacuated and citizens advised to stay indoors. The strikes mark the most significant direct confrontation since the 12-day Israel-Iran war in June 2025, but this time with explicit US participation, raising the stakes to potential global conflict levels.
A notable context to this development is Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Israel, which concluded just days before the strikes. During his trip, Modi addressed the Knesset, condemned terrorism, and reaffirmed India's strong support for Israel, stating that "India stands with Israel firmly, with full conviction." The visit focused on deepening strategic ties, including discussions on defense cooperation and a potential free trade agreement. While there is no official confirmation linking the visit directly to the strikes, some analysts speculate that regional security discussions may have occurred amid rising US-Israel tensions with Iran. India has not yet issued an official reaction to the attacks.
The operation follows failed nuclear negotiations between the US and Iran. Recent talks in Geneva saw little progress, with the US demanding the dismantling of key facilities like Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, the transfer of enriched uranium, and a permanent deal without sunset clauses. Iran rejected these terms, insisting on full sanctions relief and refusing to destroy its infrastructure. Trump's administration had repeatedly warned of consequences if no deal was reached.
Experts warn that Iranian retaliation could target US bases, Israeli cities, or even disrupt global oil supplies through the Strait of Hormuz, sending energy prices soaring and impacting the world economy. The involvement of US forces has heightened fears of a broader war, potentially drawing in regional allies and proxies.
This moment tests global peace. The world watches anxiously: Will diplomacy prevail through back-channel efforts, or will the cycle of strikes and counter-strikes lead to an all-out regional—and possibly wider—conflict? As smoke continues to rise over Tehran and sirens wail in Israel, the
coming hours and days will be decisive.
Sajjadali Nayani ✍
Friday World February 28, 2026
