Escalation in the Middle East: US and Israel Launch Coordinated Strikes on Iran
A significant escalation of tensions in the Middle East unfolded on Saturday, February 28, 2026, as the United States and Israel launched coordinated strikes against targets within Iran. The attacks, described as “major combat operations” by US President Donald Trump, follow weeks of mounting threats and stalled negotiations regarding Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs.
Initial Strikes and Iranian Response
The initial wave of attacks targeted multiple Iranian cities, including the capital, Tehran, as well as Isfahan, Qom, Lorestan, Karaj, Kermanshah, and Tabriz. Reports indicate explosions were heard across these locations, with smoke rising from various parts of Tehran. Iran responded with missile and drone attacks targeting Israeli territory and US military facilities across the Middle East, including locations in Bahrain, Iraq, Qatar, Kuwait, the UAE, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia.
Civilian Impact and Reported Casualties
Tragically, reports from Iran’s IRNA news agency indicate a devastating impact on civilians, with 57 students killed in an Israeli airstrike on a girls’ primary school in Minab, southern Iran. While details regarding overall casualties and damage remain sparse, the incident underscores the human cost of the escalating conflict.
Diplomatic Fallout and International Condemnation
The Iranian Foreign Ministry has vehemently denounced the attacks as “criminal military aggression,” occurring “in the midst of a diplomatic process.” The ministry has called on UN member states to condemn the action as a violation of the UN Charter. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has labeled the strikes as “wholly unprovoked, illegal, and illegitimate.”
Historical Context: A Recurring Pattern
This latest military campaign represents Israel’s second major operation against Iran in less than a year. A 12-day conflict in June 2025 saw a similar joint operation between Israel and the US targeting Iranian military and nuclear facilities, resulting in the deaths of senior military commanders, government officials, and nuclear scientists.
Targets of the Operation
The operation, dubbed ‘Roar of the Lion’ by Israel, focused on Iranian military and nuclear-related targets. US President Trump stated the goal was “eliminating imminent threats” from Iran and indicated intentions to “destroy their missiles and raze their missile industry to the ground.”
Potential for Wider Escalation
The retaliatory missile and drone attacks by Iran, coupled with the targeting of US military facilities, significantly raise the risk of a broader regional conflict. Officials in Tehran have vowed a “decisive” and potentially prolonged response, suggesting the current escalation may not be short-lived.
FAQ
Q: What triggered the recent attacks on Iran?
A: The attacks were triggered by stalled negotiations regarding Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs, and expressed frustration from US President Donald Trump.
Q: What was the immediate response from Iran?
A: Iran launched missile and drone attacks targeting Israeli territory and US military facilities across the Middle East.
Q: Were there civilian casualties reported?
A: Tragically, 57 students were reported killed in an airstrike on a school in Minab, Iran.
Pro Tip
Stay informed about the evolving situation by following reputable news sources and avoiding unverified information circulating on social media.
Explore further: Al Jazeera’s ongoing coverage of the US and Israel attacks on Iran
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