The United States and Israel launched a large-scale military campaign against Iran on February 28, 2026, killing Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and targeting nuclear and military infrastructure, triggering retaliatory attacks and global energy market disruption.
Joint US–Israel Military Campaign Begins
The United States and Israel launched a coordinated military operation against Iran on February 28, 2026, marking one of the most significant escalations in Middle East tensions in recent years.
The operation, known as Operation Epic Fury by the United States and Operation Roaring Lion by Israel, targeted Iranian leadership, nuclear facilities, ballistic missile sites, and military infrastructure across several locations.
The strikes followed stalled diplomatic negotiations over Iran’s uranium enrichment programme and ballistic missile development.
Iranian Supreme Leader Killed in Initial Strikes
One of the most consequential outcomes of the opening attacks was the killing of Ali Khamenei, who died during the early phase of the strikes in Tehran.
The operation reportedly also killed several senior Iranian officials and military commanders as coalition forces targeted high-level leadership sites and strategic military facilities.
The assassination of Khamenei has created a leadership vacuum within Iran, leading to the formation of an interim leadership council while authorities determine the country’s political transition.
Iran Launches Retaliatory Strikes Across the Region
In response to the attacks, Iran launched a series of retaliatory operations under the name Operation True Promise IV, targeting Israeli cities and multiple U.S. military installations across the Middle East.
Missile and drone strikes have reportedly hit locations linked to U.S. forces in Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, while Israel has also faced repeated missile barrages.
The conflict has already caused significant casualties. Iranian authorities report more than 1,300 deaths, including civilians, while Israel has reported fatalities and the United States has confirmed the deaths of several service members.
Global Energy and Economic Shock
The military escalation has had immediate consequences for global energy markets.
Iranian forces reportedly moved to assert control over the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy corridors. The disruption threatens a major share of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.
Oil prices surged to around $87 per barrel, while shipping disruptions and security risks have driven up insurance costs for vessels operating in the Gulf region.
Airlines have also suspended flights to Iran and parts of the Gulf as the conflict raises safety concerns for international aviation.
Rising Risk of Wider Regional Conflict
Security analysts warn that the escalating confrontation could widen into a broader regional conflict involving allied militias and regional powers.
The strikes have already affected commercial shipping, energy infrastructure, and air travel across the Middle East, while global markets remain volatile amid fears of prolonged instability.
International leaders and diplomatic organizations have called for restraint and renewed diplomatic engagement to prevent the conflict from expanding further.