Iran Attack: US-Israel Strikes, Tehran Response & Evacuation Orders – February 2026

US-Israel Attack on Iran: A Novel Era of Conflict and Potential Global Repercussions

The coordinated large-scale attack by the United States and Israel on Iran, following warnings from former President Trump, marks a significant escalation in Middle Eastern tensions. Dubbed “Operation Epic Fury” by the Pentagon, this action follows a similar US bombing of Iranian nuclear sites last June. The strikes targeted military sites and centers of power within Iran, prompting a swift retaliatory response from Tehran.

The Objectives: Nuclear Ambitions and Regime Change

President Trump framed the operation as necessary to curb Iran’s nuclear aspirations and to create an opportunity for regime change. He directly appealed to the Iranian people, urging them to “take control of your government.” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed this sentiment, describing Iran as an “existential threat” and suggesting the operation could empower Iranians to “take their destiny into their own hands.”

Targets and Initial Damage Assessment

Explosions were reported in multiple Iranian cities, including Tehran, Qom, Kermanshah, Isfahan, and Karaj. Images from Tehran showed dense plumes of smoke rising from impacted areas. Reports indicate strikes near the presidential palace and the Supreme National Security Council, as well as attacks close to the Ministry of Intelligence.

Israeli officials stated a primary goal of the initial wave was to target military leaders. The Israeli air force described a “vast wave of attacks” on military targets in western Iran. Sources from both countries anticipate the offensive will continue for several days. Satellite imagery revealed damage and smoke at the compound of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in Tehran, though Iranian authorities claim both he and President Masoud Pezeshkian are safe.

Iran’s Retaliation: Missiles Launched at Israel and US Bases

The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps announced the launch of missiles and drones towards Israel. Simultaneously, Tehran claimed to have struck US bases in the region, including Al Udeid (Qatar), Ali Al Salem (Kuwait), Al Dhafra (Emirati Arabi Uniti), and the Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain. Qatar’s defense ministry reported successfully intercepting several attacks. A Kata’ib Hezbollah official in Iraq reported attacks on the group’s bases, resulting in at least three deaths.

Evacuation Orders Issued in Tehran

The Iranian government is urging residents of Tehran to evacuate the city, communicating this directive via SMS messages. The message cites the joint US and Israeli operations against Tehran and other major cities, advising citizens to relocate calmly if possible.

The Potential for Wider Regional Conflict

The current escalation raises serious concerns about a broader regional conflict. The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has condemned the military escalation, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and warning of grave consequences for civilian populations and regional stability. An emergency meeting of the UN Security Council has been convened to address the crisis.

International Reactions: A Divided World

The attacks have elicited varied responses from governments worldwide. The European Union President Ursula von der Leyen expressed “great concern” and emphasized the importance of maintaining nuclear safety and preventing further escalation. The EU is coordinating with Arab partners to explore diplomatic solutions. China has condemned the US-Israeli attack on Iran.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the stated goal of the US-Israel attack? The stated goals are to curb Iran’s nuclear ambitions and create an opportunity for regime change.
• Has Iran retaliated? Yes, Iran has launched missiles and drones towards Israel and claims to have struck US bases in the region.
• What is the international response? Reactions are mixed, with some countries expressing concern and calling for de-escalation, while others have condemned the attack.
• Are civilians being affected? Reports indicate strikes in populated areas, and the Iranian government is urging residents of Tehran to evacuate.

Did you know? This is the second US military operation targeting Iranian nuclear facilities in less than a year.

Pro Tip: Stay informed by following updates from reputable news sources and international organizations like the UN.

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