Washington D.C. – A joint military operation launched by the United States and Israel against targets in Iran is underway, aimed at dismantling what officials are calling “existential threats” posed by the Iranian regime. The coordinated strikes began Saturday, February 28, 2026, according to statements from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The operation comes as tensions in the Middle East continue to escalate, and could have significant implications for global energy markets. According to reports, the strikes are primarily focused on military objectives and residences of Iranian leaders. Donald Trump, the U.S. President, has expressed hope that the Iranian people will rise up and overthrow the current government, which has been in power since 1979.
Early reports indicate that Iran has responded with missile strikes targeting Israel and U.S. Military bases in the Persian Gulf region. Iranian officials have described the attacks as “absolutely unprovoked and illegal.” The Iranian Foreign Minister has condemned the actions, while U.S. And Israeli leaders maintain the operation is an act of self-defense. Concerns are too growing over a potential Iranian threat to close the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping lane for approximately 20% of the world’s oil and gas supply. This development could lead to a surge in oil prices.
The strikes have already resulted in casualties, with Iranian Red Crescent officials reporting over 200 people killed. According to Iranian media, one Israeli missile struck a girls’ school, resulting in more than 80 deaths.
Further escalating the situation, on March 21, 2026, the U.S. And Israel conducted an airstrike on Iran’s Natanz nuclear facility, according to Iranian media. Initial reports suggest no radiation leak was detected following the attack.
Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, announced on March 21, 2026, that Israel and the U.S. Would significantly intensify attacks on Iran in the coming days, as reported by TVNET, targeting Iranian leadership. This follows consultations with high-ranking military officials.
However, reports also suggest growing disagreements between the U.S. And Israel regarding the objectives of the conflict in Iran. according to media reports. Meanwhile, the U.S. Military has stated that Iranian threats to the Strait of Hormuz have diminished. as reported by Apollo.lv.
The Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has advised citizens to refrain from travel to both Israel and Iran. The situation remains fluid, and the potential for further escalation is high. The ongoing conflict underscores the fragility of regional stability and the complex geopolitical challenges facing the international community.
In a separate development, reports indicate a U.S. Military operation has destroyed bases in Iran and secured global oil tanker routes.
