JERUSALEM — A conflict that had been building for decades erupted into a major military confrontation on February 28, 2026, when Israel and the United States launched a sweeping offensive against Iran, dramatically altering the strategic balance across the Middle East.
The operation, designated Operation Epic Fury by the United States, targeted Iranian military infrastructure, missile and drone facilities, air defenses, command centers and senior leadership. U.S. Central Command said the campaign began at 1:15 a.m. Eastern time and involved strikes from air, land and sea. (U.S. Department of War)
Among the most consequential developments was the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. President Donald Trump announced his death following the initial strikes, and Iranian state media subsequently confirmed it. Khamenei had ruled Iran since 1989, making his death one of the most consequential political developments in the country’s modern history. (The Washington Post)
The offensive followed years of Israeli and American concern over Iran’s nuclear program, ballistic-missile capabilities and support for armed groups throughout the region. Earlier military action had already damaged portions of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, but the February operation represented a dramatic escalation from containment toward sustained military pressure.
Israel said its opening strikes were designed to severely weaken Iran’s military capabilities and leadership. U.S. officials said intelligence indicating a potential Iranian threat to American interests also influenced President Trump’s decision to authorize the operation. (The Washington Post)
Iran responded with missile and drone attacks against Israel and U.S. positions across the region. American officials reported that defensive systems intercepted numerous incoming threats, while Israel also deployed its missile-defense network to protect population centers.
The conflict has nevertheless carried a heavy humanitarian cost. Iranian authorities reported significant civilian casualties following the opening attacks, while international organizations and governments raised concerns about damage to civilian infrastructure. The full toll has remained difficult to establish amid continuing combat and restrictions on information from affected areas. (The Guardian)
The confrontation has also threatened regional energy security. Iran’s strategic position near the Strait of Hormuz has raised concerns over global oil and gas shipments, while attacks and counterattacks have increased uncertainty throughout Gulf markets. By August, the dispute over control of the waterway remained a major obstacle to broader diplomatic efforts. (Reuters)
International reactions have been divided. Supporters of the operation argue that Iran’s nuclear and military capabilities posed a serious threat requiring decisive action. Critics have warned that the campaign risks prolonged regional warfare, civilian suffering and wider instability.
Months after the opening strikes, the conflict remains unresolved. Attempts to establish a lasting ceasefire have faced repeated setbacks, while Washington and Tehran continue to disagree over military operations, sanctions and the future of the Strait of Hormuz. (Reuters)
The February 28 offensive therefore represents more than another chapter in the long confrontation between Israel, Iran and the United States. It has fundamentally reshaped regional security, disrupted energy markets and created a new geopolitical reality whose consequences could extend well beyond the Middle East.
