Escalating Conflict: US and Israel Strike Iran, Tehran Retaliates
The conflict in the Middle East intensified on Saturday, February 28, 2026, as the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran, prompting a swift response from Tehran. The strikes mark a significant escalation in regional tensions and raise concerns about a wider war.
Explosions were reported across Iran, including in the capital city of Tehran, as well as in multiple cities throughout the country. According to reports from Iranian media, strikes targeted the Ministry of Intelligence, the Ministry of Defence, the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, and the Parchin military complex. Missiles also reportedly hit University Street and the Jomhouri area of Tehran. At least two students were killed in an attack on a school east of the capital, Al Jazeera reported.
In response to the attacks, Iran launched waves of missiles and drones toward Israel and military bases in the Middle East where US forces are stationed. Iranian officials had previously warned that any attack on its territory would be met with retaliation against US military facilities across the region. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) stated, “This operation will continue relentlessly until the enemy is decisively defeated,” adding that all US assets in the region are considered legitimate targets.
Details regarding casualties and damage are still being gathered. Initial reports indicate explosions were heard in Tehran around 9:27 am local time (06:27 GMT). A correspondent in western Tehran reported hearing two explosions, and videos circulating on social media showed smoke rising from various parts of the city.
The strikes come as the conflict expands, with Iran also reportedly retaliating with strikes on Israel and blamed for air attacks on Gulf states, according to the BBC. Qatar, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia have all reported intercepting drones and missiles launched by Iran.
The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) reports 1,168 civilians have been killed in Iran since February 28. The US Department of Defense has confirmed six American military personnel have been killed since the conflict began.
The former Supreme Leader of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in Tehran during the initial wave of strikes, the Israeli military stated. The IDF released a video showing the destruction of an underground bunker intended for use by Iran’s supreme leader, claiming fifty fighter jets were used in the raid.
The development underscores growing regional tensions and raises the possibility of further escalation. The situation remains fluid, and the international community is closely monitoring the unfolding events.
Video footage captured explosions in Tehran following the US-Israel strikes.
