US and Israel Launch Major Offensive Against Iran, Tehran Retaliates Across Middle East
In what is being called the largest military operation in the Middle East since the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003, the United States and Israel jointly launched an attack on multiple sites across Iran, including nuclear facilities, missile installations, and leadership targets in Tehran. In response, Iran has retaliated with missile strikes against Israel, US bases, and allies across the region.
Background and Context
Dubbed Operation Epic Fury/Roaring Lion,
the attack was initiated on February 28, 2026. The operation, aimed at bringing about regime change in Iran, was ordered by US President Donald Trump to eliminate imminent threats
to the American people. This military action has led to an escalation of hostilities in the Middle East, with Iran retaliating by launching missiles at Israel and Gulf states.
Key Developments
The joint US-Israel operation has targeted multiple locations across Iran, with reports indicating that several residential buildings in Tehran were hit. Explosions were heard across the country, and black smoke columns were visible in Iran's capital and other cities. The Israeli Army reported that the attacks continued into a second day, targeting Iran's strategic infrastructure.
In response to the offensive, Tehran launched retaliatory missiles across the region, with waves of strikes reported in Israel and across several Gulf countries, including the United Arab Emirates. There are reports that Dubai was also struck in the retaliatory offensive, and the Emirati government confirmed that at least one person was killed from falling missile debris.
Implications and Reactions
In the wake of this escalation, there has been a mixed response at the international level. While Republicans broadly support President Donald Trump's decision to launch strikes against Iran, Democrats criticize the operation as an undeclared war and are seeking to halt the campaign under the 1973 War Powers Act.
Alarm sirens were heard in Jerusalem, and Trump issued a statement saying, We will destroy their missiles, they will not have nuclear.
Meanwhile, Iranian officials have declared that everything American or Israeli has become a legitimate target for the Iranian armed forces.
Conclusion
As the situation unfolds, the Middle East has been tipped into a new phase of uncertainty and instability. With Washington amassing military force in the region, and despite ongoing talks on Tehran's nuclear program, hopes for a diplomatic resolution appear slim. The attack on Iran and its ensuing retaliation have plunged the Middle East into a state of chaos, with both sides seemingly preparing for a prolonged conflict.