This article's lead sectionmay be too short to adequately summarize the key points. Please consider expanding the lead to provide an accessible overview of all important aspects of the article.(March 2026)
This is a dynamic list and may never be able to satisfy particular standards for completeness. You can help by editing the page to add missing items, with references to reliable sources.
Beginning on 28 February 2026, Israel and the United States launched coordinated joint attacks on various sites in Iran, which started the 2026 Iran conflict. Codenamed Operation Roaring Lion by Israel and Operation Epic Fury by the United States Department of Defense, it has targeted key officials, military commanders, facilities, and is aimed at regime change.
US President Donald Trump speaking on the United States strikes in Iran
President Donald Trump confirmed that the US military have begun "major combat operations" in Iran,[1] describing it as "a massive and ongoing operation to prevent this very wicked, radical dictatorship from threatening America".[2] 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 47years, 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."[3] Trump said that talks with Iran will be easier following the assassination of Ali Khamenei.[4] On the third day of the conflict, Trump said that the US military is "knocking the crap out of Iran but the big wave of attacks yet to come" and mentioning the possible use of ground troops.[4]
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.[5]Mike Johnson, the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, said that Israel would have attacked Iran even if it were without the help of the United States, and the consequences of this would have been "devastating". He called the involvement of the United States in the attack "absolutely necessary for our defense".[6] Other Republicans opposed the operation, including Representative Thomas Massie and former Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene.[7][8]
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."[9] Senator Mark Warner, after attending a classified briefing on the war, said there was no immediate threat from Iran.[6] 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 (the Democratic leader of the Senate, who was in a classified briefing on the Iran war. After it, he said he "found their answers completely and totally insufficient".[6]), House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries,[9] and Democratic Senator Andy Kim;[10] the Constitution of the United States, Article One, Section Eight, Clauses1 and11 together enumerate that "The Congress shall have Power... to declare war."
Significant members of the US Congress are calling for a vote on the war powers resolution, known as the War Powers Act,[11] that would hold back Trump's attack on Iran. The resolution was already being crafted before the strikes began.[12] The act would immediately stop US attacks sixty days (and an extra thirty if Trump writes to congress) after Trump reported it unless Congress declares war.[11] It is not clear whether the Act will initially pass, with representative Ro Khanna giving it a 40% to 60% chance of passing through the house this week. The act would then need a two-thirds majority in order to override the US Presidential veto.[13]AP News reported on 28 February that "Congress would not have the two-thirds majority needed to overturn that rejection," and referred to the proposal as "mostly symbolic".[14] In a letter in regards to the proposal, Trump told the President pro tempore of the United States Senate that he attempted to negotiate with Iran but that that a diplomatic route became impossible.[11]
Right-wing commentators additionally condemned the operation. The Daily Wire host Matt Walsh called the Trump administration's messaging "confusing" and contradictory.[15] Both Walsh and Andrew Tate described armed conflict with Iran as irrelevant to the needs and interests of the American people, while Infowars host Alex Jones claimed that it would "activate terrorist sleeper cells" and increase the likelihood of World War III.[16] Influencer Nick Fuentes, meanwhile, accused Israel of dragging the United States into war with Iran.[16] White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt responded to Walsh's remarks by stating that "Preventing this radical regime and its terrorist leaders from threatening America and our core national security interests is a clear-eyed and necessary objective," further claiming that the operation "correct[s] decades of cowardice and hold[s] those responsible for the deaths of Americans accountable."[15]
A Reuters/Ipsos poll showed 27% of Americans approved of the US operation while 43% disapproved and 29% were unsure.[17] Another by CNN found that 59% of Americans disapproved of the strikes, only 41% approved.[18] Critics of Trump, including Democratic politicians, far-right influencers, and social media users, referred to the war with satirical names to allege that the war aims to distract Americans from investigations into Trump's past with the financier and child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein in the Epstein files like the "Epstein War" and "Operation Epstein Fury" (or "Operation Epstein's Fury"), the latter being a reference to the operation codename "Operation Epic Fury".[19][20][21][22]
Following Khamenei's assassination celebrations have also been reported in other parts of the world including the Iranian community in Los Angeles, condemning Khamenei while many of them were calling for regime change and Iranian freedom.[23][24]
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."[25] 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".[26] Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was the first to report and celebrate the assassination, stating "for 47 years, the Ayatollah regime has chanted 'Death to Israel' and 'Death to America.' It has spilled our blood, murdered many Americans, and slaughtered its own people."[27] Defense Minister Israel Katz celebrated the killing, stating "he who acted to destroy Israel – has been destroyed ... Justice has been served, and the axis of evil has suffered a mortal blow."[28]
Iran
Government
Iran's Foreign Ministry vowed a response as Iranian forces struck US bases across the Persian Gulf.[29][30] 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."[31] Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi called the attacks "wholly unprovoked, illegal, and illegitimate".[32] Vice President Aref stated that the path to social justice will not be resisted or stopped by any missile attack.[33]
Following the assassination of Khamenei, Ayatollahs Naser Makarem Shirazi and Hossein Noori Hamedani 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".[34] Iranian regime declared they have lifted any and all import/export rules and restrictions.[35] They announced they have enough fuel and medicine readily available.[36][37] They threatened bakeries to not to close shop and work for 16 hours a day making bread.[38] Some 8 official clerics of Iranian government clergy called for protecting Iranian regime against attack.[39]
The National post corporation paused all parcel delivery until 3 March.[40] All sporting events were canceled after they were banned by government. Iraq or UAE will possibly replace Iran in 2026 FIFA World Cup soccer events.[41][42] Iranian haj Mecca pilgrims were instead returned from Saudi Arabia by land.[43]
The government also renewed a "near total" internet blackout in Iran, as NetBlocks reported internet connectivity in Iran dropping to 4% of ordinary levels.[49][50][51] Iranians abroad have reported that they have been unable to connect with family members in Iran.[52]
Military
Interim Supreme Leaders' Council chief member Justice Ayatallah Mohsen Ejei said there are no deadlocks within the Islamic Republic government system.[53] The IRGC warned that newer warheads getting carried by missiles are more than 500kg.[54] IRGC general Jabari stated that "US military planes are being moved there we will shoot so many missiles into Cyprus that you will flee there as well."[55] Foreign minister Abbas Araghchi said attacks by Iran will continue until as long as they are defending.[56]
In the third day in Operation True Promise IV IRGC, Khatam al-Anbia central headquarters stated they launched 10 waves of drone and missile attacks against various Israeli cities and Americans.[57] IRGC Brig. Gen. Seyyed Majid Ibn al-Reza replaced Aziz Nasirzadeh, the former Minister of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics, who was assassinated in a missile strike on day 1.[44]
The Daily Telegraph and Iran International circulated footage showing civilians in Iran celebrating the strikes, with some expressing the hope that the events might weaken or even topple the current leadership.[59][60]
Outlets including The New York Times, Reuters, Al Jazeera, and Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty released photographs from pro-government demonstrations. In those images, participants were seen carrying Iranian flags and portraits of Ali Khamenei while voicing opposition to the U.S. and Israeli strikes.[61][62][63][64] Some blamed the regime for the outbreak of the war, and some were concerned it would survive.[65] There was some panic in areas with strikes.[64] Civilians were witnessed celebrating the killing of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, while security forces opened fire on celebrants in the streets.[66][67] On 1 March 2026, a video showed a crowd of civilians toppling a monument dedicated to Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.[68]
As news of Khamenei's death broke out, some Iranians celebrated in the streets in an expression of "joy, shock and disbelief",[67] though security forces were deployed to prevent an uprising along with a renewed internet blackout.[69][70][71] Despite the internet blackout, videos of people celebrating Khamenei's death in Karaj, Qazvin, Shiraz, Kermanshah, Isfahan, and Sanandaj were circulated,[67] with security forces opening fire on some celebrants.[66] On 1 March 2026, in southern Iran, a monument dedicated to the Islamic Republic's founder, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini was toppled by a crowd.[68]
Exiled Iranian opposition leader Reza Pahlavi is aligned with Israel and the United States and has prepared a transitional government that he says is ready to take over should the Islamic Republic be overthrown.[72][73]
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.[77] Pahlavi 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.
Egypt: Egypt's president stated his full support of the GCC states against Iranian aggression, warning from further escalation.[80]
Morocco: The ministry of foreign affairs condemned the Iranian retaliatory strikes on several Arab states and reaffirmed Morocco's "solidarity with the brotherly Arab states in all legitimate measures they take to respond to this attack and protect their security".[81] The royal cabinet released a statement saying that King Mohammed VI conversed with the leaders of the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar and Saudi Arabia by telephone to express his condemnation.[82]
Somaliland: President of Somaliland, which is recognised by Israel, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi held a phone call with Prime Minister Netanyahu, expressing concern at the unfolding events and calling for the protection of civilians. Abdullahi also condemned Iran's strikes on its neighbours.[83]
South Africa: Without mentioning any involved parties by name, on 28 February, president 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.[84]
Asia
Afghanistan: The foreign ministry said that recent US and Israeli strikes on Iran would have “long-term negative consequences” for the region, as hostilities continued to escalate (the Taliban regime is also fighting a concurrent war against Pakistan at the same time). In a statement, the Taliban expressed what it called “deep regret” over the attacks on Iran.[85] Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi denounced the aggression against Iran and extended condolences to the Iranian government and people over the targeting of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.[86]
Armenia: Armenia's leadership and foreign ministry condemned Israel's "unilateral attack," calling it "deeply concerning."[87]
Azerbaijan: In an official statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs called on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and return to the negotiating table. The Ministry emphasized the importance of respecting the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence of all states in accordance with the UN Charter.[88] President Ilham Aliyev also sent a letter of condolence to Iran's leadership over the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Khamenei, noting that Khamenei "held a special place in the political and religious life of his country," calling his death "a great loss for Iran."[89]
Bahrain: Bahrain condemned the Iranian strikes on the headquarters of the US Navy Fifth Fleet which it hosts, calling it a "treacherous attack" and a "blatant violation of the kingdom's sovereignty and security".[90]
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.[91] Foreign Minister Wang Yi condemned the attack.[92] 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.[93] The People's Liberation Army released a video on 1 March, through its "China Military Bugle" account, showing fighter jet drills conducted by both the People's Liberation Army Air Force and the People's Liberation Army Navy. Captioned "Prepare For War At Any Time", it sharply criticized American and Israeli actions against Iran.[94] Reports of celebrations of Ali Khamenei's death have been censored in China.[95]
India: The Ministry for External Affairs expressed its concerns and requested all three nations for a ceasefire.[96] Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, spoke with the gulf leaders[a] and condemned the strikes and attack on sovereignty without mentioning Iran.[97] Modi also spoke with the Israeli PM. In contrast there was no conversation with Iran by Modi, nor any mention or reaction to the assassination of Khamenei. An Indian Navy destroyer, INSSurat(D69), and a frigate was on deployment in the Gulf of Oman and the Gulf of Aden under Operation Sankalp. The destroyer had also been on a visit Bahrain from 16 February. The warships could be immediately diverted for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations, as per a senior defence official.
Japan: Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced on X that "As the Japanese Government, we will prepare for any potential risks, and handle it in the best possible way that we can."[98][99] Takaichi also emphasized during the House of Representatives Budget Committee that "Japan's consistent position is that Iran's development of nuclear weapons can never be tolerated" and urged Iran to cease hostilities. However, she did not make any statements over the actions taken by Israel and the United States.[100] Defense Minister Shinjirō Koizumi also announced that the preparations were being made to evacuate Japanese expats in the region by the Self-Defense Forces.[101] On 1 March, he announced that the government "as a whole" supported the American and Israeli attack.
Kuwait: Kuwait condemned the Iranian attacks on its territory as a "flagrant violation" of international law.[104]
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.[105][106][104] Salam also condemned Hezbollah's decision to join the war by attacking Israel, calling it "an irresponsible and suspicious act that jeopardizes Lebanon's security and safety and provides Israel with pretexts to continue its aggression".[107] He also said "We will not allow the country to be dragged into new adventures".[108]
North Korea: A spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned Israel's and the United States' attacks as "illegal aggression" that "constitute the most heinous form of violation of sovereignty". The spokesperson added that "the Democratic People's Republic of Korea condemns in the strongest terms the shameless and gangster-like behaviour of the United States and Israel, who do not hesitate to abuse military force to achieve their selfish and hegemonic ambitions, placing domestic law above recognized international law", stating the "war of aggression" cannot be justified.[109][110]
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."[90] A spokesperson for the Foreign Minister condemned the strikes, calling them illegal aggression. Oman also called for a UN Security council meeting.[111][112]
Palestine: The Palestinian Authority condemned the Iranian retaliatory strikes on the Gulf Arab states, stating that it "affirms the solidarity of our people and their steadfastness alongside the sister Arab nations" and expressed support for "whatever measures" they take to defend themselves.[113]
Pakistan: Pakistan's Foreign Minister condemned the Israeli and American strikes on Iran.[114] He also stated he reminded Iran of the mutual defense agreement they signed with Saudi Arabia in September 2025.[115][116]
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.[104]
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.[117] In a statement released by the official press agency, Saudi Arabia condemned the "flagrant" and "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.[118][119][120][121] 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".[122]
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.[123]
Turkey: The government condemned the strikes from both sides.[124] President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan stated that he was saddened by Khamenei's death and that Turkey will continue diplomatic efforts to "regain peace and stability".[125]
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.[104] The UAE also closed its embassy in Tehran and withdrew all its diplomatic mission.[126] The UAE also closed its stock exchange.[127]
Albania: Prime Minister Edi Rama expressed Albania's support for "the United States in militarily supporting Israel today under the leadership of President Donald Trump". He added that "we stand firm with Israel and with the peace-seeking brotherly Arab countries", and declared that Albania will designate the IRGC as a terrorist organization.[129] While most European governments called for restraint following the escalation of violence in the Middle East, Albania emerged as one of the most outspoken supporters of the US-Israeli military action against Iran. This position reflects Albania's longstanding alignment with the United States, as well as its strained relations with Iran, which have been influenced by Albania's hosting of members of the exiled Iranian opposition group Mujahideen-e-Khalq (MEK) and Iran-sponsored cyberattacks against Albania.[130]
Bulgaria: The foreign ministry condemned the Iranian strikes on Gulf states, describing them as a 'dangerous military escalation' for which Iran bore responsibility. It also urged Iran to cease its military actions.[131]
Cyprus: President Nikos Christodoulides condemned Iranian drone and missile attacks against several Arab states, describing them as violations of international law. He emphasized Cyprus's commitment to regional stability and called for immediate de-escalation and a return to diplomatic channels.[131]
Czech Republic: Prime Minister Andrej Babiš declared the "uncontrollable Iranian nuclear programme and support for terrorism" a danger to the Czech Republic and to all of Europe, adding the Czech Republic stands by the US and Israel and expressed a belief that stability and peace will soon prevail in the region.[132] Further in the day, Babiš had also labelled Iranian attacks on the various Arab states a breach of their sovereignty, given they did not participate in the initial strikes.[133]
Estonia: Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna characterized the death of Ayatollah Khamenei as a strategic blow to the Russia–Iran alliance.[131]
Finland: President Alexander Stubb condemned the Iranian strikes.[134] Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen posted on X that Khamenei's assassination opens a window for long-awaited change in the Middle East, adding that "Iran has provided Russia with drones and missiles used in its war of aggression against Ukraine. Its non-compliance with nuclear non-proliferation agreements has been a constant threat to world peace".[135]
France: President Emmanuel Macron called for an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council.[136] On 28 February 2026, Macron issued a joint statement with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz condemning Iranian attacks on regional countries.[137] On 3 March, Macron said that France "cannot approve of" the strikes being conducted "outside of international law", and said that Iran bears primary responsibility, while also announcing movement of materiel into the Mediterranean.[138]
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.[139] Addressing concerns over the legality of military action against Iran, Merz acknowledged a "dilemma", noting that decades of reliance on international law and sanctions had proven "clearly ineffective" against the regime.[140]
Ireland: Taoiseach Micheál Martin said that he was deeply concerned by developments in Iran and urged all parties to exercise restraint, in line with the principles of the UN Charter and international law. He declared that the protection of civilian life in Iran, in Israel and in all neighbouring countries must be paramount to ceasefire efforts.[142]
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.[143] 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.[144] Italy reported that around 58,000 Italians were stuck in the Middle East following the start of the hostilities.[145]
Latvia: Foreign Minister Baiba Braže reacted to the death of Ali Khamenei by saying the world would not mourn him, calling it a relief for the Iranian people and expressing hope for a future free of oppression.[131]
Lithuania: Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys issued a statement regarding the death of Ali Khamenei, stating that the "hope for [a] better future, for [the] Iranian people — but also for Israelis and all of the Middle East — seems to have come closer."[131]
Netherlands: Prime Minister Rob Jetten has maintained a critical stance toward Tehran, calling for a cessation of its military activities and highlighting the Dutch government's "deep concerns" regarding the Iranian regime's internal repression and its role in regional escalation.[131]
Norway: Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide said: "The attack is described by Israel as a preventive strike, but it is not in line with international law. Preventive attacks require an immediately imminent threat."[104]
Poland: President Karol Nawrocki stated that Poland had been aware of the military actions in advance through established communication channels with allied nations.[131]
Portugal: Prime Minister Luís Montenegro called for maximum restraint in order to avoid escalation, but condemned Iran for unjustifiably attacking neighbouring countries, insisting on the cessation of the country's nuclear programme and urging Iran to respect the human rights of its people.[146]
Romania: Foreign Minister Oana Țoiu condemned the Iranian regime's internal crackdown and its military aid to Russia, stating that the announcement of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's death marked a significant turning point.[131]
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",[147] accusing them of pushing the region into a "humanitarian, economic, and potentially even radiological disaster".[148] Russian president Vladimir Putin called the assassination of Khamenei a "cynical murder." He sent his condolences to Pezeshkian and said that "Khamenei's assassination is a violation of all standards of human morality and international law."[149]
Slovakia: Prime Minister Robert Fico expressed solidarity with countries affected by the attack on Iran—specifically the United Arab Emirates—noting that retaliatory actions were expected.[131]
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".[150][151][non-primary source needed] The Spanish government also denied the United States the use of joint military bases at Rota and Morón to carry out attacks on Iran. Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares stated that "The bases are not being used – nor will they be used – for anything that is not in the agreement [with the US], nor for anything that isn't covered by the UN charter."[152] Fifteen US aircraft were reportedly seen leaving the bases shortly afterward.[152] In response, Trump threatened to halt all trade with Spain and even impose an embargo.[153]
Sweden: Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson denounced Iranian counterattacks and criticized the regime's "oppression" of its own citizens. He further identified Iran's nuclear program and its support for militant groups as long-term "destabilizing factors" in the Middle East and Europe.[131]
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."[147] The 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."[104]
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.[154] 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".[155] 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."[156] 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.[157] However, Starmer later agreed to let the US use British military bases for defensive purposes. He claimed this decision complies with international law.[158] The government also stated that it had bolstered "defensive capabilities" in the region and that consular support was being offered to British citizens in the region.[154]
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.”[159]
North America
Antigua and Barbuda: Prime Minister Gaston Browne expressed concern at the escalation of the conflict and condemned Iran's strikes on its neighbours.[160]
Canada: Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed support for U.S. and Israeli air strikes on Iran, describing the country as the "the principal source of instability and terror throughout the Middle East" and a threat to international security.[161] Carney later said that he supported the strikes "with regret, because the current conflict is another example of the failure of the international order."[162]
Trinidad and Tobago: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar said that Trinidad and Tobago "supports the actions of the United States and Israel and its allies aimed at preventing oppressive regimes from acquiring nuclear weapons capabilities that would jeopardise international peace and security."[160] She called Iran's nuclear program a "global threat" and expressed solidarity with the countries attacked by Iran.[160]
Oceania
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, also stating Australia stood with "the brave people of Iran in their struggle against oppression".[163]
New Zealand: Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters in a joint statement said "New Zealand has consistently condemned Iran's Nuclear programme, its destablilising activities in the region and elsewhere, and its repression of its own people", acknowledging the US/Israeli strikes were "designed to prevent Iran from continuing to threaten international peace and security" and calling for a resumption of negotiations and adherence to international law.[164]
Papua New Guinea: Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko expressed support for the US and Israel, accusing Iran of harbouring terrorism. Prime Minister James Marape conveyed sympathies for Israel and the UAE, asking for a total restoration of peace in the Middle East and beyond.[165]
South America
Argentina: President Javier Milei praised the US and Israeli military operations and Khamenei's "elimination", calling Khamenei one of the most "violent, cruel, and evil persons in the history of humankind."[166] Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno expressed support for the US and Israel, saying that their military operations seek a "lasting stability in the world and security in the region".[167][168] Quirno added following Khamenei's assassination the Iranian regime at the time of the AMIA bombing in 1994 had orchestrated the attack by proxy via Hezbollah operatives, and added that "[he] hope[d] that Khamenei's death and the potential collapse of the Islamic government will bring relief to the families of the AMIA victims."[167]
Brazil: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned and expressed "grave concern" for the attacks, urging all parties involved to "respect International Law and to exercise maximum restraint to prevent an escalation of hostilities and to ensure the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure".[169][170]
Chile: The outgoing government, headed by Gabriel Boric, condemned "the attacks against Iran perpetrated by the United States in conjunction with Israel, as well as the Iranian regime's response against Israel and Gulf states", expressed its concern about the military escalation in the region and called for an end to the violence, reaffirming its commitment to nuclear non-proliferation.[171][172] Incoming president José Antonio Kast released a statement saying that Chile must align with democratic nations, expressing concern at civilian casualties in the strikes and the risks of the Iranian nuclear programme. Kast's office also condemned Iran's actions against its neighbours.[173]
Guyana: the Foreign Ministry called for de-escalation and expressed solidarity with the Arab countries attacked by Iran, condemning Iranian strikes on them.[160]
Uruguay: The Ministry of Foreign Relations issued a statement expressing the Government's "grave concern" over the escalation of violence resulting from military operations conducted by the United States and Israel, as well as Iran's military response targeting neighbouring countries.[174] The statement further noted that Uruguay, as a "country committed to the promotion of peace", urges the parties involved to resume diplomatic channels in order to address issues related to "the nuclear question".[175]
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.[176][177] The message was later removed from all social media after the confirmation of the death of Khamenei.[178]
Representatives from Coalition of Political Forces of Iranian Kurdistan the 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.[188]Nechirvan Barzani, Presindent of the autonomus Kurdistan region gave condolences the martyrdom of the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran and a prominent religious scholar; we sympathize and share in their grief, we pray to Almighty God to bless his soul with His mercy and kindness and to grant patience and comfort to everyone."[189] Following the targeting of Erbil International Airport and the Consulate General of the United States in Erbil by Iranian missiles,[190] a senior commander of the Peshmerga stated that his forces were on alert and "prepared for any eventuality".[191]
Hezbollah in Lebanon 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."[192] 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". Hezbollah joined the war on 2 March launching strikes on Israel.[193] Israeli defense minister Israel Katz stated that Qassem is "marked for elimination."[194]
The Houthi movement in Yemen threatened to escalate their conflict in the Red Sea.[195] They decided to resume missile and drone attacks on US and Israeli-flagged ships in the Red Sea.[196] 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".[192]Kataib Hezbollah in Iraq threatened to "soon begin attacking US bases in response to their aggression" after a strike in Jurf al-Nasr area of Iraq's Babylon Governorate killed two people and injured three others.[197][bettersourceneeded]
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Council President Antonio Costa called the conflict "greatly concerning" and urged restraint.[104] On 1 March 2026 it was reported she supports a "credible transition" of power in Iran.[199][200]
A NATO spokesperson 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.[201][202] Mark Rutte, NATO secretary general, said on an interview with BBC news that Europe is "supportive" of the United States attacks on Iran stating that Iran is a "threat".[203]
The Gulf Cooperation Council convened an emergency council meeting and ordered the Iranian regime to cease attacks on Arab countries immediately.[204]
Khamenei's death triggered a worldwide protests. In Baghdad, demonstrators confronted security forces near the Green Zone, and protesters attempted to storm the US embassy and block roads leading to it. Protesters were seen waving flags and shouting slogans while mourning Khamenei.[227]Riots broke out near the US consulate in Karachi in response to the assassination, with demonstrators burning and smearing the building's windows and attempting to storm it. As protests escalated, security forces opened fire, killing at least 22 protestors and injuring over 120 people.[228][229] Demonstrators also vandalized several buildings, including a regional office affiliated with the United Nations in Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan.[230][231]
↑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!'
↑Pourahmadi, Catherine Nicholls, Jennifer Hansler, Chris Isidore, Niamh Kennedy, Stephanie Halasz, Kara Fox, Hanna Ziady, Eyad Kourdi, Tala Alrajjal, Kaanita Iyer, Aleena Fayaz, Charlotte Reck, Leila Gharagozlou, Oren Liebermann, Ross Levitt, Sana Noor Haq, Eugenia Yosef Oren Liebermann, Chris Lau, Kristie Lu Stout, Helen Regan, Antoinette Radford, Nic Anderson, Hanna Park, Teele Rebane, Jessie Yeung, Karla Cripps, Ruben Correa, John Liu, Mostafa Salem, Rhea Mogul, Deva Lee, Eugenia Yosef, Sebastian Shukla, Zeena Saifi, Abeer Salman, Tal Shalev, Adam (3 March 2026). "Live updates: Trump says it's 'too late' for talks with Iran as Israel strikes Tehran". CNN. Retrieved 3 March 2026.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
↑"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). 1 March 2026. 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.]
This page is based on this Wikipedia article Text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 license; additional terms may apply. Images, videos and audio are available under their respective licenses.
