3 people killed and 58 others injured in the UAE[24] 1 person killed and 32 others injured in Kuwait[25] 16 people injured in Qatar[26] 5 people injured in Jordan[27] 4 people injured in Bahrain[28] 1 person injured in Oman and 4 people injured in the Strait of Hormuz[29]
Trump declared that the objective of the operation is to destroy Iran's missile and military capabilities, prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, and ultimately topple the regime.[54][55] On 1 March, Trump projected that the operation will take one month or less for these objectives to be completed,[56] though a number of analysts have contested whether these objectives — themselves subject to change — can be completed in that time frame.[57][58][59] The United Nations and several uninvolved countries condemned the initial strikes for undermining the stability of the Middle East while others condemned Iran's retaliatory strikes on US allies in the region.[60] Critics of the operation also called it illegal under domestic US law and a violation of Iran's sovereignty[61] under international law.[62]
The re-imposition of US sanctions severely impacted Iran's economy. The Iranian rial fell by 20%,[65] from 35,000 to the dollar to 42,000 in 2021.[66] International banks that traded with Iran paid heavy fines.[67] All major European companies abandoned doing business with Iran out of fear of US punishment.[68] Sanctions drove millions of Iranians into poverty and reduced their purchasing power with respect to imported essential goods such as food and medicine[69] while fuelling inflation, unemployment and infrastructure deterioration.[70]
Tensions between Iran and the United States and Israel have increased since the 7 October attacks on Israel and the onset of the Gaza war in 2023 in which Israel has weakened Iranian-backed militias across the Middle East, including Hamas in Gaza,[g]Hezbollah in Lebanon, and others. Israel and Iran exchanged strikes in April and October 2024, and were engaged in a brief war in 2025 that included an American airstrike aimed at destroying Iran's nuclear facilities.[35]
Anti-government protests in Iran and initial US deployments
Beginning in late December 2025, massive nationwide anti-government protests erupted in Iran, driven largely by economic crisis, the collapse of the rial, and rising prices. The protests, which included calls for regime change, became the largest in scale since the 1979 revolution,[37] spreading to over 100 cities across the country.[73] The Iranian government responded with violent repression, including massacres of protesters, with the deadliest incidents occurring on 8 and 10 January 2026;[36] The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency estimated the death toll at 7,000, the Iranian government said the death toll was 3,117, while Donald Trump and others said the death toll was 32,000 people.[74][75]AP News reported that the government's overwhelming use of violence had caused despair among the Iranian public and had given rise to hopes among some citizens for an American attack.[76] Several scholars have argued that the Iranian government now faces a fragile state that could lead to its demise.[77]
On 13 January 2026, US president Donald Trump expressed support for Iranian anti-government protesters,[38] and later, on 23 January, Trump announced that a US "armada" was heading to the Middle East, including the aircraft carriers USSAbraham Lincoln and USSGerald R. Ford, and several guided-missile destroyers.[78][79] US and European officials said Washington had presented Iran with three core demands: a permanent end to all uranium enrichment, strict limits on Iran's ballistic missile programme, and a complete halt to support for regional proxy groups such as Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis.[80] The planning for a proposed series of attacks also started in co-ordination with Israeli intelligence agencies.[81]
Nuclear negotiations and US buildup of military presence
On 6 February 2026, Iran and the US held indirect nuclear negotiations in Oman's capital, Muscat. Iran emphasized that progress depends on consultations back in capitals.[39] A second round of nuclear talks is scheduled in Geneva.[39] Between 15 and 20 February, Iran increased its oil exports to 3 times normal rate, and reduced oil storage.[82] Just before the strikes began, on 27 February 2026, Oman's Foreign Minister Badr Al-Busaidi said a "breakthrough" had been reached and Iran had agreed both to never stockpile enriched uranium and to full verification by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA);[83] furthermore, Iran had agreed to irreversibly downgrade its current enriched uranium to "the lowest level possible". Al-Busaidi said peace was "within reach".[84][83]
In early February 2026, the US also deployed a second aircraft carrier, USS Gerald R. Ford, to the Middle East to increase pressure on Iran.[85] On 11 February 2026, the 47th anniversary of the 1979 revolution was marked by pro-government rallies and strong anti-American rhetoric.[86] On 13 February 2026, Trump stated that regime change in Iran would be "the best thing that could happen".[87] A day later, on 14 February, US officials told Reuters that the US military was preparing for a broad campaign involving weeks-long, sustained operations against Iran that could target its state and security infrastructure.[88] By 19 February, the US buildup was described as the largest in the Middle East since the 2003 invasion of Iraq.[40] On 24 February 2026, during a State of the Union speech, Trump accused Iran of reviving efforts to build nuclear weapons, condemning these alleged ambitions as "sinister" and claiming that Iran had also developed increasingly advanced missile capabilities that could threaten the US, Europe, and US bases overseas. He warned that the US was prepared to act if necessary.[89] The Gang of Eight, a group of eight leaders in the US Congress who are commonly briefed on classified intelligence matters, was briefed on the attack prior to its commencement.[90] Also at the time, Bloomberg News claimed NATO Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) craft were surveilling Iran out of Konya Airport,[91] though Turkey later denied reports it was aiding US and Israeli strikes on Iran.[92]
By the end of February, the Trump administration had made numerous unproven claims that Iran had restarted its nuclear programme, had enough nuclear material to build a bomb within days, and was developing long-range missiles that would soon hit the United States.[93][94] These statements were disputed by American and European government officials, international weapons monitoring groups, and American intelligence agencies.[93] According to an anonymous US source, Trump authorized the strike after the US received intelligence that Iran was planning to preemptively launch missiles.[95][96] The Defense Intelligence Agency had previously concluded it would be at least a decade before Iran would be able to gain the technical skill to produce missiles to reach the United States;[54] the United States Department of Defense estimated Iran's nuclear programme had been set back by two years following earlier strikes on Iranian nuclear sites in June 2025.[97] However, it was reported on 27 February that the IAEA discovered that Iran had hidden highly enriched uranium in an underground facility that was undamaged in the previous round of fighting,[98][99] and IAEA said that they could not be sure that Iran's nuclear programme was "exclusively peaceful".[100] Before the attack, JD Vance, the Vice President of the United States, defended striking Iran. When asked about whether he would support a regime change in Iran despite previously criticizing the Iraq war, he said that life "has all kinds of crazy twists and turns".[101]The Washington Post reported that US president Donald Trump's decision to attack Iran came after Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman and the Israeli government lobbied him repeatedly to make the move.[46]
Prior to the attack, Khamenei, through his speech addressed to his followers in early February as released by the website of Supreme Leader of Iran, warned the United States that "if they start a war this time, it will be a regional war".[104]
Hostilities
28 February
Initial Israeli and American strikes
Airstrikes on Iran began around 9:45a.m. IRST (1:15a.m. EST) on Saturday, 28 February; Saturday is the first day of the week in Iran and a regular work day.[105] A combination of US missiles, drones, and Israeli fighter jets was used in the strikes.[106]Low-cost one-way attack drones of Task Force Scorpion Strike were employed for the first time in combat.[107] US warships launched Tomahawk missiles, while the US Army used HIMARS launchers.[106] Undisclosed long-range standoff weapons were also used.[106] Explosions were reported as Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed an Israeli attack.[108][109][110]The Times of Israel reported that Katz had labelled the strikes a "pre-emptive attack" intended to "remove threats to the State of Israel".[111] Among the targets was the Pasteur district in Tehran where Iranian supreme leader Ali Khamenei normally resided; also home to the presidential palace and National Security Council.[112] Early reports suggested that at least seven missiles had been confirmed to have struck the area.[113] American officials confirmed that the strikes were coordinated with the US.[114] The Israeli Air Force (IAF) said that it had struck 500 military targets in western and central Iran, including air defences and missile launchers, using approximately 200 fighter jets, in the largest combat sortie in its history.[115] The opening strikes were codenamed by Israel "Operation Genesis" (Hebrew: מטס בראשית).[116][117] Israel also hit Iran with cyberattacks that targeted media and phone apps with messages calling on Iranians to rise up against their government, according to The Wall Street Journal.[118]
Israel subsequently declared a state of emergency, citing expectation of an Iranian attack.[111] Sirens blared in Israel as the government warned its citizens to remain in protected areas.[119] US ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee encouraged US citizens in Israel to take immediate action upon hearing the siren,[120] and US president Donald Trump warned that US lives may be lost.[121] The Israeli Ministry of Health moved its hospitals underground.[122] According to Iran International, Israeli military Persian-language spokesman Lt. Col. Kamal Penhasi issued an urgent warning to Iranian civilians residing near military industries and infrastructure to evacuate immediately, stating "Your presence in these areas puts your life at risk."[123]
According to a US official, dozens of US strikes were carried out by planes based around the Middle East from one or more aircraft carriers.[124]Reuters reported that strikes were carried out by air and sea.[125] Israeli military officials said months-long planning preceded their strikes, allowing them to pinpoint their targets, attain "tactical surprise", and gain US support.[126] Israel later stated its initial strikes used over 1,200bombs in 24hours.[127] Iranian naval vessels were also targeted.[128] The US military stated that it used B-2 stealth bombers to strike fortified ballistic missile facilities inside Iran.[129]
The Fars News Agency and CNN reported more explosions across other cities in Iran, including Qom, Kermanshah, Isfahan, and Karaj.[130][131] In Tehran, missile strikes were reported to have occurred on University Street, in the Jomhouri area, and in the northern Seyed Khandan area.[132] Communication services across Tehran were impaired following the attacks,[133] and a near total internet blackout was reported by Netblocks.[134][135][136] According to the BBC, the office of the Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, and the presidential office of Masoud Pezeshkian in Tehran were hit during the strikes.[134]Channel 12, citing unnamed Israeli sources, said Israel assessed that there were "growing indications" that Khamenei was likely killed in the strikes, or that he was "hurt at the very least".[137]Reuters quoted an unnamed Israeli official who stated that Khamenei's body had been found, confirming death.[138]
A spokesperson for the Iraqi Popular Mobilization Forces said that two of its fighters had been killed while three more had been injured during strikes in Jurf al-Sakhar, south of Baghdad.[139] According to Iran International, quoting the Iranian Students' News Agency, thousands of IRGC personnel, including several senior officials,[140] were killed or wounded as several military bases were attacked.[123] It reported that the port city of Bushehr had also been struck; however, it was unclear whether the nuclear reactor had sustained any damage.[123] CNN reported that the timing of the attacks is symbolically meaningful in Judaism as it was done ahead of the upcoming Jewish holiday of Purim on 2 March.[141]
20,000 reservists are mobilized in Israel, in addition to the 50,000 reservists who are on duty.[10]
Israeli and American leaders' statements on their aims
US president Donald Trump announcing the strikes in a video statement
At 2:30 AM EST on 28 February, US president Donald Trump released an 8-minute video statement, saying that the purpose of the US strikes in Iran was effectively regime change. Trump said that Iran's "menacing activities" endangered the US and its allies. He cited the Iran hostage crisis, support for proxies such as Hamas and Hezbollah, its killings of protesters, and its alleged pursuit of nuclear weapons. He asserted that in the conflict, "The lives of courageous American heroes may be lost and we may have casualties. That often happens in war".[142] He urged members of the IRGC to "lay down your weapons and have complete immunity, or in the alternative, face certain death". Addressing the Iranian public, he said, "When we are finished, take over your government. It will be yours to take. This will be probably your only chance for generations." He added, "For many years, you have asked for America's help, but you never got it... So let's see how you respond. America is backing you with overwhelming strength and devastating force", concluding, "Now is the time to seize control of your destiny... This is the moment for action. Do not let it pass."[54][55][143]
Shortly after, Benjamin Netanyahu released a video statement saying Israel and the United States had launched strikes against Iran "to remove the existential threat" posed by what he called "the terror regime in Iran". Netanyahu accused Iran's leadership of decades of hostility, saying that "for 47 years, the Ayatollah regime has called out 'Death to Israel' and 'Death to America'", and described it as a "murderous terror regime" that "must not be allowed to arm itself with nuclear weapons". He said the joint US-Israeli action would "create the conditions for the brave Iranian people to take their destiny into their own hands", and called on the people of Iran to "cast off the yoke of tyranny".[144]
Iranian response and missile attacks in the Persian Gulf theatre
Iranian forces reacted within hours by launching missiles against targets in Tel Aviv and Haifa as well as the US military bases in the Persian Gulf region. The quicker response relative to that of the Twelve-Day War suggests a change in Iran's command structure.[145]
Iran targeted multiple US military bases throughout the Persian Gulfregion.[146]Bahrain activated air-raid sirens to warn of an Iranian attack on US military bases within the nation, with Arabic media saying explosions and smoke were seen in the capital, Manama.[147][148] Bahrain later confirmed the strikes and said that the US Fifth Fleet headquarters had been targeted.[8] Explosions were also reported at Kuwait International Airport and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates.[149][150] Following the missile and drone attacks on Kuwait, its Foreign Ministry summoned Mohammad Toutounchi, Iran's ambassador in Kuwait.[151] According to CNN, the IRGC said that Iran had targeted four US bases in the Middle East: Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, Ali Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait (which also hosted Italian soldiers),[5]Al Dhafra Air Base in the UAE, and the US Navy Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain, and a video was posted in which smoke could be seen rising from the direction of the base in Bahrain.[152] Saudi Arabia confirmed that there had been Iranian attacks on Riyadh and its Eastern Province.[153] It claimed to have successfully intercepted Iranian attacks aimed at those areas and said that the Kingdom will "take all necessary measures" to defend itself, "including the option of responding to aggression".[154] The UAE also stated that it had successfully intercepted a number of Iranian missiles and that one Asian national had been killed by interceptor debris which had fallen on a residential area.[134][155] Qatar said that it had intercepted at least two waves of missile attacks, stating that no casualties or property damage had been reported.[156] In the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, Iranian aerial attacks targeted infrastructure hosting US military and civilian personnel, including Erbil International Airport and the US Consulate General in Erbil. However, according to local media reports, most missiles and drones had been intercepted.[157]
A nine-storey building was hit by missiles in northern Israel, injuring one person.[139] Strikes were also reported in Haifa and Tel Aviv.[158] A strike on a residential area in Tel Aviv killed a woman and injured 27 others.[159] Reports claim missiles from Iran had hit Jordanian territories and the capital Amman.[160][161] Jordan said that its armed forces had shot down two Iranian ballistic missiles targeting its territory[134] and that it had handled 54 reports of falling debris that caused material damage but no casualties.[162] Residential areas of Dubai in the proximity of the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Marina and the Dubai Palm were hit by strikes, setting the Fairmont The Palm hotel on fire,[163] causing four injuries,[164] as well as a residential building on the outskirts of Doha.[165][156][166][167] Local sources say Iran used Shahed drones, that are one of the deadliest weapons used by the regime as well as its proxies like Hamas and Hezbollah.[168] The UAE said that it had intercepted a "new wave" of Iranian missiles and that "fragments from the interceptions" had fallen in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, causing damage to Burj Al Arab.[169][170] Strikes on Kuwait International Airport caused several undefined injuries.[163] In Bahrain during the evening a tower in a residential area was reported to be hit by an Iranian drone.[164]
Later in the day Israel said that it had begun another wave of attacks on Iranian aerial defence and missile launchers in central Iran.[171]
1 March
US and Israeli strikes
On 1 March, Israel executed another wave of strikes against Iranian targets, as part of its ongoing campaign,[172] aiming at the centre of the capital. Iranian media outlets reported potent blasts.[173] Trump said in a post on Truth Social, "Iran just stated that they are going to hit very hard today, harder than they have ever been hit before. They better not do that, however, because if they do, we will hit them with a force that has never been seen before!"[172] CENTCOM declared that it was instructed to "dismantle the Iranian regime's security apparatus."[174] The IDF said that it bombed an F-4 and an F-5 fighter jet preparing to take off from a runway.[175] The HQ-9B system around Tehran was also inactivated.[176]
Iran's top security official, Ali Larijani, announced a temporary leadership council and accused the US and Israel of trying to dismantle Iran. He warned "secessionist groups" of severe consequences if they take action.[172] Iran's parliament speaker, Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, threatened Trump and Netanyahu, saying they had crossed a red line and would "pay for it."[172]
Officials killed in strikes included Mohammad Baseri, an official in the ministry of intelligence, and Gholamreza Rezaeian, the head of the intelligence department of FARAJA police.[178] Trump relayed to NBC News that "a large amount of leadership" in Iran had been killed.[181]
Iranian retaliation
On the morning of 1 March, reports confirmed Iran launched missiles and drones on Israel, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia.[182][183][184] Later reports noted missiles from Iran fired at Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain.[185][183][184] Witnesses saw smoke from missile intercepts over Dubai and dark plumes rising from the Port of Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates.[172] An explosion occurred near the Erbil Airport following an attack by Iraqi militia drones.[178] UK defence secretary John Healey stated that Iran had fired two missiles towards British bases on Cyprus, but added that he did not believe they were under attack.[186][187] However, Defence Minister of Cyprus Vasilis Palmas later denied that missiles were launched at Cyprus.[188]
During drone operations in the Strait of Hormuz the port of Duqm was reportedly hit by two drones, injuring one expatriate worker,[189] and Oman's Maritime Security Centre confirmed that an oil tanker which was Palau-flagged, named Skylight, had been targeted 5 nautical miles north of the port of Khasab, causing four injuries amongst the Indian-Iranian crew present on the vessel.[190] Later, a vessel 17 nautical miles northwest of Mina Saqr, UAE, was struck by a projectile, causing a fire that was extinguished.[191] Just like the prior day, Riyadh was also hit by direct strikes.[192] An Iranian missile managed to breach Israeli defences and hit a synagogue in Beit Shemesh, killing 9 people, leaving 11 missing and injuring 51 others.[1][193]
An Iranian drone hit the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Manama, Bahrain, causing a fire and the intervention of the Bahraini civil defence teams to safeguard the tourists and personnel located in the hotel.[194][195] In Abu Dhabi a drone was intercepted in the proximity of the Etihad Towers complex, near to the Israeli embassy, and upon being intercepted its debris damaged the towers and caused minor injuries to a woman and her child.[196] Iranian attacks killed one person and injured 32 in Kuwait.[197]
As a result of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, 150 freight ships, including many oil tankers, are stalled behind the strait.[198]
The IRGC claimed that it struck the USSAbraham Lincoln with four missiles,[199] which was later denied by a US official.[1] The French naval base Camp de la Paix in Abu Dhabi was also reportedly struck by an Iranian missile or drone.[200] Two Iranian drones targeted a warehouse at Al-Salam Naval Base in Abu Dhabi, causing a fire in two containers storing general materials.[201]
Around 15:30 GMT Saudi Arabia stated that they had managed to intercept various missiles attempting to target Prince Sultan Airbase and King Khalid International Airport.[202] UK military officials said an RAF Typhoon felled an Iranian drone bound for Qatari airspace.[203] Iranian missiles and drones also struck a US military base near Erbil and a Bundeswehr field camp in eastern Jordan, injuring one American soldier.[204]
Another vessel, the Marshall Islands-flagged tanker MKD VYOM, was damaged after being struck off the coast of Oman.[205]
Towards the end of the day a ballistic missile strike managed to hit an area of West Jerusalem causing property damages in the surrounding road, damaging a civilian vehicle and wounding six people.[206] Debris of an Iranian missile fell in Ain Tarma, Syria.[6]
Diplomatic developments
Saudi response
CNN reported that Crown Prince Salman, with US backing, vowed to employ military force against further Iranian incursions, calling Iranian strikes "cowardly" due to Saudi airspace being closed to US and Israeli attackers.[207]
EU three response
To avert further Iranian strikes, the EU three—the UK, France, and Germany—resolved to back, if needed, "proportionate military defensive measures" against drones and ballistic missiles, signalling the potential for direct involvement.[208] British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that US can use British bases for "defensive" strikes on Iran.[209]
Negotiations
On 1 March, Trump announced that the US has agreed to continue negotiations with Iran.[210] Trump later outlined a four-week timetable for the war in an interview with the Daily Mail.[211]
2 March
US and Israeli strikes
As a response to northern aggression by militants in Lebanon the IDF proceeded with a series of strategic bombings on Beirut and the Beqaa Valley.[212] Strikes also hit southern Lebanon.[213] Soon after the Israeli air force begun operations in Tehran.[214]
Iranian retaliation and Hezbollah offensive
In the early hours of 2 March 2026, the Royal Air Force station at Akrotiri was targeted by six drones, one of which reportedly managed to hit the airfield, causing minor damage.[215][216] British military warnings stated that there was an "ongoing security threat",[217] which was later confirmed by Cypriot authorities.[218]
Israeli sources reported projectiles being launched from within Lebanon toward its territory in the early hours of 2 March, setting off sirens across Haifa and the Upper Galilee.[219][220] The IDF said that it intercepted a rocket, while others hit open areas.[221] Israeli intel believes the attack was the result of an order from Tehran, and the IDF spokesperson issued an emergency statement stating that the attack is to be considered "an official declaration of war by Hezbollah", vowing to "neutralize" the threat.[212] Hezbollah confirmed its responsibility, claiming it attacked an IDF base in Haifa in response to Khamenei's killing.[222] Two drones targeted the U.S. Victory Base near Baghdad International Airport, one of which reportedly struck the base.[223] An Iranian strike targeted Mina Salman port in Bahrain causing a fire.[224]
Khamenei on 12 February 2026, 16 days before his assassination
Shortly before midnight in Iran on 28 February, an unnamed Israeli official said that Khamenei had been killed in the air strikes and his body had been recovered and identified by intelligence sources.[225] Furthermore, Netanyahu stated that there were signs that Khamenei might have been killed,[226] though the Iranian foreign ministry contested his claim.[227] According to Israeli officials, Khamenei's body was found in rubble.[228] Iranian sources later suggested he was "commanding the field".[229] Several Western and Iranian news outlets, citing Israeli government sources, reported that Khamenei was deceased.[230][125][231][232] President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu both indicated they believed he was dead before his death was acknowledged by Iran, with Iranian officials initially denying this.[229][233]
Trump later wrote on Truth Social that "Khamenei, one of the most evil people in History, is dead [...] He was unable to avoid our Intelligence and Highly Sophisticated Tracking Systems."[234] CIA assessments suggested that a hardliner from the IRGC would replace Khamenei.[235]
Early on 1 March, Iranian state media announced that Khamenei had been killed.[236]Fars News Agency, which is affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, announced that Khamenei's daughter, son-in-law, grandchild, and daughter-in-law had also been killed in the strikes.[237][238][239] The state declared 40 days of mourning.[240]
United States Central Command (CENTCOM) initially stated that it had suffered no casualties, noting that light damage to its facilities had not disrupted its operations and that it had neutralized several hundred Iranian drone and missile strikes.[249] At 9:30a.m. ET on 1 March, CENTCOM confirmed that three American service members were killed and five others were seriously injured during the operation.[1] The IRGC, however, claimed that 560 American troops were killed or injured after two ballistic missiles allegedly struck the Naval Support Activity Bahrain base.[250]
CBS News reported that "an intelligence source and a military source told CBS News Saturday evening [28th February 2026]" that 40 Iranian officials had been killed in the strikes but that they were not "clear whether these officials were in one location or multiple locations".[251][252]
At around 17:30 CET of the first day of strikes, the Red Crescent reported that 201 civilians had been killed and 747 injured in Iran.[166]
More casualties were added following retaliatory attacks from Iran. The first connected Iranian airstrike targeted a building in Israel, leaving one Israeli civilian injured.[254]Magen David Adom reported that Iran's initial attacks had left 89 injured, with three directly wounded and the rest indirectly.[255] A later direct hit in Tel Aviv killed a woman and injured 20 others, one seriously.[256] By 1 March, the UAE reported that three foreign nationals were killed and 58 other people were injured by Iranian attacks.[257] Two students were killed in a strike in Tehran.[22]
The aftermath of an airstrike on Shajareh Tayyebeh school
According to sources in the Iranian government, a girls' elementary school was hit in the Israeli and American attacks on Minab.[258] Reports stated that 148 students had been killed and 95 had been wounded in the strike.[21] Several sources reported there was no independent confirmation of the number killed,[259][260] although The Washington Post and The New York Times verified footage taken immediately after the attack.[261][262] A spokesperson for the Iranian foreign ministry called the strike a crime.[263]
Israel declared a nationwide state of emergency, saying that the strikes on Iran were the largest that it had ever launched.[111][264] Israel Katz issued a statement saying "Under my authority pursuant to Section 9C(b)(1) of the Civil Defence Law, 5711-1951, and after being convinced that there is a high probability of an attack on the civilian population, I hereby declare a special state on the home front throughout the entire territory of the country."[265] Israeli schools and workspaces were closed and public gatherings were cancelled.[266]
Renewed internet blackout and suppression of civilians in Iran
Amid the renewed "near total" internet blackout in Iran, NetBlocks reported that internet connectivity in Iran dropped to 4% of ordinary levels.[134][135][136] As news of Khamenei's death broke, Iranians began pouring out into the streets in celebration, though security forces were deployed to prevent an uprising, with footage showing them opening fire on celebrants in the streets.[268][269]
According to a Wirtschaftswoche analysis, prolonging the conflict would mean a "catastrophe" for Gulf states such as Qatar and the UAE.[279]
Alleged Strait of Hormuz closure
A Reuters report cited an Operation Aspides official who said that the IRGC had closed the Strait of Hormuz to shipping, according to maritime VHF radio announcements. A European Union official reported that vessels have been receiving messages stating that "no ship is allowed to pass the Strait of Hormuz".[280][281] Late on 28 February, outgoing traffic was heavy, while ingoing traffic was light.[282] Many vessels stayed outside the area, but some continued through. Three vessels were struck by projectiles, with partial damage.[283]
Iran's Foreign Ministry vowed a response as Iranian forces struck US bases across the Persian Gulf.[146][284] The Supreme National Security Council said Iran was targeted by a "brutal air operation" carried out by the US and Israel, saying: "This occurred once again during negotiations, and the enemy imagines that the resilient Iranian nation will surrender to their petty demands through these cowardly actions."[285] Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called the attacks "wholly unprovoked, illegal, and illegitimate".[277]
Following the assassination of Khamenei, Ayatollahs Naser Makarem Shirazi and Hossein Noori Hamedani, one of Iran's most senior ayatollahs issued a fatwa for jihad against America for Muslims to avenge his death, saying vengeance was "the religious duty of all Muslims in the world so that the evil of these criminals is eradicated from the Earth".[286]
Civilians
A holistic picture of civilian reactions in Iran is somewhat difficult to obtain due to the government's control over the circulation of information, and the ongoing heated nature of the conflict.[287]The Daily Telegraph and Iran International posted videos of some people inside Iran celebrating the attacks, hopeful that they will bring forth an end to the ruling government.[288][289]The New York Times, Reuters, Al Jazeera, and Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty published photos of some Iranians during pro-government rallies waving the Islamic Republic flag holding portraits of Ali Khamenei while demonstrating against the US and Israeli attack.[290][291][292][293] Some blamed the regime for the outbreak of the war, and some were concerned it would survive.[294] There was some panic in areas with strikes.[293] However, as news of Khamenei's death broke out, Iranians began pouring out into the streets in celebration in an expression of "joy, shock and disbelief",[295] though security forces were deployed to prevent an uprising along with a renewed internet blackout.[296][268][136] Despite the internet blackout, videos of people celebrating Khamenei's death in Karaj, Qazvin, Shiraz, Kermanshah, Isfahan, and Sanandaj were circulated,[295] with security forces opening fire on some celebrants.[269] On 1 March 2026, in southern Iran, a monument dedicated to the Islamic Republic's founder, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini was toppled by a crowd.[297]
Exiled Iranian opposition leader Reza Pahlavi is aligned with Israel and the United States and has prepared a transitional government that is ready to take over should the Islamic Republic be overthrown.
Reza Pahlavi, the US-based exiled son of the former Shah of Iran, urged Iranians inside Iran to prepare to resume protests as the Islamic Republic "collapses", called on the military and security forces to side with the public rather than the ruling government, and described US action against Iran as a "humanitarian intervention" while urging Trump to avoid civilian harm.[303] Pahlavi prepared a transitional government and put forward the Iran Prosperity Project, an initiative affiliated with the US-based National Union for Democracy in Iran (NUFDI), which outlines plans for the first 180 days of Iran's governance following the potential collapse of the Islamic Republic, including measures for economic stabilization and institutional reconstruction.[302]
President Donald Trump confirmed that the US military have begun "major combat operations" in Iran,[305] describing it as "a massive and ongoing operation to prevent this very wicked, radical dictatorship from threatening America".[306] In a video posted to Truth Social, he reaffirmed that "Our objective is to defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime, a vicious group of very hard, terrible people", adding: "For 47 years, the Iranian regime has chanted Death to America and waged an unending campaign of bloodshed and mass murder, targeting the United States, our troops and the innocent people in many, many countries."[307] Trump said that talks with Iran will be easier following the assassination of Ali Khamenei.[123]
American lawmakers have had mixed reactions. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham supported the action, along with other members of his party, including Senate Majority Leader John Thune, as well as some Democrats, including Senator John Fetterman and Representative Josh Gottheimer.[308] However, other Republicans opposed this operation, including Representative Thomas Massie and former Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene.[309][310] Democratic politicians tended to be more withdrawn. Representative Jim Himes stated, "Everything I have heard from the Administration before and after these strikes on Iran confirms this is a war of choice with no strategic endgame."[311] Senator Tim Kaine called for a check on Trump's power to engage in war without the support of Congress, supported by Republican Senator Rand Paul, Democratic Senator Chuck Schumer, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries,[311] and Democratic Senator Andy Kim.[312]
A poll by The Guardian showed 27% of Americans approved of the US operation while 43% disapproved and 29% were not sure.[313]
Israel
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the goal of the strikes was to "remove the existential threat posed by the terrorist regime in Iran", stating that "our joint action will create the conditions for the brave Iranian people to take their destiny into their own hands."[314] Foreign minister Gideon Sa'ar said that military action against Iran was urgently needed "despite the significant risks involved", adding that "delay would have allowed the Iranian regime to reach a level of immunity for its nuclear programme, as well as to engage in the mass production of long-range ballistic missiles".[315]
United Nations: Secretary General António Guterres condemned the attacks, stating that "the use of force by the United States and Israel against Iran, and the subsequent retaliation by Iran across the region, undermine international peace and security."[316]
European Union: Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Council President Antonio Costa called the conflict "greatly concerning" and urged restraint.[81] On 1 March 2026 it was reported she supports a "credible transition" of power in Iran.[317]
NATO: A spokesperson for the alliance stated they were closely watching the situation while a senior official told Stars and Stripes that its missile defence vigilance was heightened in order to protect its member states in the event that Iranian attacks expanded.[318][319]
States
Australia: Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, in a joint statement with Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Defence Minister Richard Marles, expressed support for US and Israeli strikes, stating "we support the United States acting to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon" also stating Australia stood with "the brave people of Iran in their struggle against oppression".[320]
Brazil: The government of Brazil condemned the strikes and called for adherence to international law.[321]
China: The foreign ministry expressed concerns about the US and Israeli strikes, called for an immediate end to hostilities against Iran, and to resume dialogue. It also stressed that Iranian sovereignty must be respected.[322] The ministry also published a statement which warned nationals to evacuate from Iran "as soon as possible".[323] On 1 March, the foreign ministry stated that the killing of Khamenei is "a grave violation of Iran's sovereignty and security", which tramples on the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and basic norms in international relations.[324] Foreign minister Wang Yi urged an immediate cessation of military operations and prompt return to dialogue and negotiations.[325]
Germany: Chancellor Friedrich Merz said that he was informed in advance and that deliberations were underway in a joint statement with France and the UK.[60]
India: The Ministry for External Affairs called for restraint and de-escalation.[327] The Indian embassy warned Indian citizens against travel to Iran and most Middle Eastern nations and urged those within the nation to seek immediate shelter.[328]NORKA also set up helplines for stranded nationals in all affected nations.[329]
Antonio Tajani, the foreign minister for Italy, in 2025.
Italy: Foreign minister Antonio Tajani noted that Italy had "given Iran clear signals, but it did not back down". American bases in Italy were put on high alert and a meeting on the topic was pursued.[330] Defence minister Guido Crosetto had travelled to Dubai with his family the day prior to the attacks, and thus had to continue his duties from abroad.[331] Italy reported that around 58,000 Italians were stuck in the Middle East following the start of the hostilities.[332]
Kuwait: Kuwait condemned the Iranian attacks on its territory as a "flagrant violation" of international law.[81]
Lebanon: Prime Minister Nawaf Salam urged restraint following the Israeli strikes on Iran, stressing that Lebanon must not be dragged into a wider regional war and should prioritize its own security and stability.[333][334][81]
Oman: Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi expressed "dismay" at the outbreak of violence in spite of the 2026 Iran–United States negotiations, urging the United States to "not get sucked in further" into the conflict, adding "this is not your war."[335] A spokesperson for the Foreign Minister condemned the strikes, calling them illegal aggression. Oman also called for a UN Security council meeting.[336][164]
Pakistan: Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar condemned the attack on Iran and urged immediate halt to escalation.[337]
Poland: President Karol Nawrocki stated that he had been notified in advance of the planned military action "through established alliance and coalition channels" of communication and was being updated about ongoing attacks.[338] Head of National Security BureauSławomir Cenckiewicz argued Poland should be contented with the display of military capacity by its principal ally.[339][340]
Qatar: The foreign ministry strongly condemned Iran for launching missiles at Qatari territory, calling it a violation of Qatar's sovereignty and reaffirming its right to respond.[81]
Russia: Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov condemned the attacks by the United States and Israel as a "reckless step" and a "deliberate, premeditated, and unprovoked act of armed aggression",[341] accusing them of pushing the region into a "humanitarian, economic, and potentially even radiological disaster".[342] Russian president Vladimir Putin condemned the killing of Khamenei and his family, and called this a violation of international law.[343]
Saudi Arabia: The foreign ministry condemned what it called "blatant and cowardly Iranian attacks" on Riyadh and Eastern Province, highlighting that the attacks took place in spite of the explicit closure of its airspace.[153] In a statement released by the official press agency, Saudi Arabia condemned the "brutal Iranian aggression" on its fellow Arab states of the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and Jordan, stating that it was a "blatant violation" of their sovereignty.[156][344] Saudi Arabia claimed to have intercepted all Iranian attacks aimed at its territory and said that it would "take all necessary measures" to defend itself, "including the option of responding to aggression".[154]
South Africa: Without mentioning any involved parties by name, on February 28, the President of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa called on the international community to "redouble efforts" regarding restraint and adherence to international law in the Middle East, with specific reference to Article 51 of the UN Charter.[345]
Spain: Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez stated his government's "rejection" of "the unilateral military action of the United States and Israel, which represents an escalation and contributes to a more uncertain and hostile international order" as well as of "the actions of the Iranian regime and the Revolutionary Guard", demanding "immediate de-escalation" and negotiations aimed at a "lasting political solution".[346][347]
Syria: The ministry of foreign affairs said it "strongly condemns the Iranian attacks" that targeted Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait and Jordan.[348]
Taiwan: President Lai Ching-te stated that his national security team has briefed him on the latest situation, the government is closely monitoring the situation, and Taiwan has taken measures to ensure the safety of Taiwanese citizens in the region, while maintaining close contact with its global allies.[349][350]
Ukraine: President Volodymyr Zelenskyy supported the Israeli–US strikes, stating that "it is important that the United States is acting decisively. Whenever there is American resolve, global criminals weaken. This understanding must also come to the Russians", adding that "in the end, the Middle East region will become safer and more stable."[341] The Ukrainian foreign ministry said that "the cause of the current events is precisely the violence and impunity of the Iranian regime, in particular the killings and repression of peaceful protesters, which have become particularly widespread in recent months."[81]
United Arab Emirates: The defence ministry condemned the Iranian attacks on its territory in the "strongest terms", calling the attacks "a dangerous escalation and a cowardly act that threatens the security and safety of civilians", and stating that it has the "full right" to respond.[81]
United Kingdom: The British government urged de-escalation to avoid "wider regional conflict" and stated that it had bolstered "defensive capabilities" and that consular support was being offered to British citizens in the region.[351] Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed that British planes are "in the sky" but "played no role" in the Israeli–US strikes, calling on Iran to refrain from further strikes and stop the "appalling violence and repression against the Iranian people".[352] Starmer added that Iran had backed more than 20 "potentially lethal attacks" in the UK over the last year, and that "it is clear they must never be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon."[353] The UK initially did not permit the US to use British military bases for the attack, including RAF Fairford and the military bases on Diego Garcia.[354] However, Starmer later agreed to let the US use British military bases for defensive purposes. He claimed this decision complies with international law.[355]
Pope Leo XIV, the head of the Catholic Church and Vatican City, warned: "I address to the parties involved a heartfelt appeal to assume the moral responsibility to stop the spiral of violence before it becomes an irreparable abyss!"
Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV called on the involved nations to stop what he called the "spiral of violence" and warned that the war could lead to a "tragedy of enormous proportions."[356]
Venezuela: The Foreign Ministry condemned the strikes on Iran, calling them a "dangerous and unprecedented" escalation amid diplomatic talks to reach a nuclear deal. Venezuela also condemned Iran's attacks on its neighbours as "undue and condemnable" and blamed a lack of dialogue in the region as a cause for the events.[357][81] The message was later removed from all social media after the confirmation of the death of Khamenei.[358]
Non-state actors
Coalition of Political Forces of Iranian Kurdistan: Representatives stated that they were jointly coordinating political and military decisions and preparing for a new phase, claiming that their forces were "deep inside Iran" and along the Iran–Iraq border, ready to respond as the situation develops.[359]
Hamas: Hamas condemned the US-Israeli strikes and issued a statement calling for Muslim unity and reaffirmed its solidarity with Iran.[360]
Hezbollah: Hezbollah condemned the US-Israeli strikes, stating "we are confident that the American and Israeli enemy will receive a great slap and will reap nothing but failure from its tyrannical, criminal aggression."[360] After the assassination of Ali Khamenei was confirmed, Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem voted to retaliate and "undertake our duty of confronting the aggression", stating that Hezbollah would not leave "the field of honour and resistance."[361]
Houthis: The Houthi movement in Yemen threatened to escalate their conflict in the Red Sea.[362] They decided to resume missile and drone attacks on US and Israeli-flagged ships in the Red Sea.[52] Houthi leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi said that his forces are "in a state of high readiness for any necessary developments", adding that Iran's retaliatory strikes are a "legitimate right and is not a targeting of the countries in which the American bases are located".[360]
Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV called on the involved nations to stop what he called the "spiral of violence" and warned that the war could lead to a "tragedy of enormous proportions."[356]
↑El Chamaa, Mohamad (28 February 2026). "U.S. military investigating reports of fatal strike on Iranian girls' school". The Washington Post. Retrieved 28 February 2026. The semiofficial Mehr News Agency reported that at least 63 students were killed and another 60 were injured, adding that 170 pupils were at the school at the time of the attack. There was no independent confirmation of that report.
↑Ceballos, Ana; Quinton, Gavin J. (28 February 2026). "Trump vowed to end wars. He is now opening a new front against Iran". ArcaMax. 'I did not campaign for this. I did not donate money for this,' said former Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, a conservative who recently left Congress after a bitter fight with Trump. 'This is not what we thought MAGA was supposed to be. Shame!'
↑Shuwei, Wu (28 February 2026). "美以空襲伊朗 賴總統: 密切關注局勢與友盟保持聯繫"[U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iran: President Lai: Closely monitoring the situation and maintaining contact with allied countries]. Economic Daily (in Chinese). Retrieved 28 February 2026.
↑中央通訊社 (28 February 2026). "美以空襲伊朗 賴總統: 密切關注局勢與友盟保持聯繫 | 政治"[U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iran: President Lai: Closely monitoring the situation and maintaining contact with allied countries | Politics]. 中央社 CNA (in Chinese). Retrieved 28 February 2026.
↑Pitazo, Redacción El (1 March 2026). "Canciller de Venezuela elimina comunicado en el que condenaba ataque de EE. UU. contra Irán"[Venezuelan Foreign Minister deletes statement condemning US attack on Iran]. El Pitazo (in Spanish). Retrieved 1 March 2026. El canciller venezolano, Yván Gil, borró de sus redes sociales y de la de la Cancillería de Venezuela el comunicado en el que condenaba el ataque de Estados Unidos e Israel contra Irán, cuando apenas se confirmó la muerte del líder supremo iraní, Alí Jameneí. [...] El comunicado ya no puede encontrarse en ninguna red social relacionada a la Casa Amarilla.[The minister, Yvan Gil, erased from his social media and those of Venezuelan ministry the message condemning the United States and Isreal attack against Iran, just after the confirmation of the death of Iranian supreme leader Ali Khamenei. [...] The statement can no longer be found in any social media related to the Yellow House.]
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