On Saturday, February 28, 2026, the United States and Israel launched a massive, coordinated military operation against Iran, codenamed “Operation Epic Fury” by the U.S. and “Operation Lion’s Roar” by Israel.
The strikes have targeted hundreds of locations nationwide, with the stated objective of destroying Iran’s nuclear and missile programs and toppling the Islamic Republic’s leadership.
Status of the Supreme Leader
Reports regarding Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei are currently the subject of intense conflicting reports:
- Israeli Reports: Israeli officials and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have stated there are “growing signs” that Khamenei was killed in a strike on his compound in Tehran. Some Israeli security sources have told media outlets they have confirmed his death.
- Iranian Reports: Iranian state media and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi have countered these claims, stating that the Supreme Leader was evacuated before the strikes and remains alive.
- U.S. Position: President Trump has indicated he believes the reports of Khamenei’s death are likely “correct,” though the Pentagon has not yet issued a formal confirmation.
Scope of the Military Operations
The assault began around 1:00 AM Eastern Time and has involved waves of airstrikes and missile launches.
- Primary Targets: Military airfields, Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) command centers, ballistic missile launch sites, and nuclear-related facilities in cities including Tehran, Isfahan, Qom, and Mashhad.
- Casualties: Early reports from the Iranian Red Crescent estimate at least 201 people killed and over 700 injured, including a significant number of civilians.
- Regime Change: In an 8-minute video address, President Trump urged the Iranian people to “take over your government,” framing the operation as a chance for “generations” to reclaim their country.
Iranian Retaliation
Tehran has responded by launching “waves” of missiles and drones:
- Targeted Areas: Strikes have hit Israel and U.S. military installations in Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the UAE.
- Impact: A missile strike targeted the U.S. Navy’s 5th Fleet headquarters in Bahrain, and one person was reported killed by falling debris in Abu Dhabi.
Global Impact
The conflict has caused immediate chaos in the Middle East:
- Airspace Closures: Commercial flights across the region have been grounded or diverted as airspaces in the UAE, Jordan, and other neighboring countries closed.
- Diplomatic Response: The UN Security Council has called an emergency meeting. Russia and China have condemned the strikes as a “reckless act of military aggression,” while the UK and France are pushing for an immediate ceasefire.
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