Escalating Conflict: Israel Continues Strikes on Iran Amid Retaliatory Missile Launches
The conflict between Israel and Iran has entered a new phase, with Israel conducting further strikes on Iranian territory and Iran responding with repeated missile attacks. The escalating exchange is raising concerns about wider regional instability.
On Saturday, March 7, 2026, Israel continued its military campaign, targeting key missile infrastructure and aircraft belonging to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), over 80 fighter jets dropped approximately 230 bombs during overnight strikes on sites in Tehran and central Iran.
The IDF stated that one target was a subterranean facility “for the storage and production of ballistic missiles,” operating with hundreds of Iranian soldiers. Another site struck was a missile storage location, including bunkers and launch infrastructure. The Imam Hossein University, a military academy associated with the IRGC, was targeted, with the IDF claiming it “served as an emergency asset and an assembly complex.”
The military indicated it is increasing strikes on Iran’s weapon production facilities, focusing on those used to manufacture missiles and launchers. Footage circulating on social media showed strikes and large fires at Mehrabad International Airport in Tehran, following reports of an “extensive” wave of strikes against targets in the capital. More details on the strikes can be found here.
In response to the Israeli actions, Iran has launched repeated salvos of ballistic missiles at Israel. This comes after earlier strikes by Israel that targeted Iran’s nuclear program and reportedly killed top military officers. The attacks on nuclear sites have raised international alarm.
The situation is further complicated by concerns over potential repercussions for other nations. Iran has reportedly issued new threats against European countries that might join the conflict. A mapping of the attacks and retaliatory strikes is available here.
According to early reports, the United States and Israel launched a joint attack on Iran on Saturday, February 28, 2026, with explosions reported across Tehran and other cities. Iran responded by launching missiles and drones at Israel and military bases in the Middle East where U.S. Forces are stationed. The IRGC stated that all U.S. Assets in the region are considered legitimate targets.
Strikes in Tehran reportedly hit the Ministry of Intelligence, the Ministry of Defence, the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, and the Parchin military complex. There were also reports of strikes on University Street and the Jomhouri area of the capital, with at least two students reportedly killed in an attack on a school east of the city.
The environmental consequences of the strikes are also drawing concern, with reports of black smoke and toxic fumes rising from targeted areas. The environmental impact of the strikes is being assessed.
There are also indications of friction between the United States and Israel regarding the duration of the military intervention. Sources suggest differing views on the scope and length of the operation.
The developments underscore growing regional tensions and could have significant implications for international security. The situation remains fluid and is being closely monitored by global powers.
