LIVE UPDATES: US and Israel Launch Major Combat Operations Against Iran

I. The Allied Offensive: US and Israeli Military Strikes

On Saturday, February 28, 2026, the Middle East plunged into a severe regional war. The United States and Israel initiated heavy bombardments against the Islamic Republic of Iran, with loud explosions reported across several major Iranian cities, including the capital, Tehran.

US President Donald Trump confirmed the military intervention, declaring the start of "major combat operations" in Iran. According to White House officials, the primary objective is to eliminate imminent threats by dismantling Iran's missile industry and preventing the nation from acquiring a nuclear weapon. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz also confirmed the participation of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

• Military Targets: Allied forces are utilizing advanced naval and air assets to target Iranian military infrastructure and alleged nuclear enrichment sites.
• Civilian Impact: Early reports from the semi-official Iranian news network Tasnim indicate tragic civilian losses, including a missile strike that hit a school in southern Iran.

II. Iranian Missile Retaliation and Regional Spillover

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council quickly condemned the "brutal air operation," vowing a massive response. Within hours, Iran launched waves of retaliatory ballistic missiles, triggering nationwide emergency sirens in Israel and drawing neighboring Gulf states into the crossfire.

• Israel: A heavy barrage was directed at northern Israel. While Israeli air defenses (Iron Dome, David's Sling, and Arrow systems) intercepted numerous projectiles, property damage and injuries have been reported in civilian areas.
• US Bases in the Gulf: Missile attacks targeted the US Navy's 5th Fleet headquarters in Bahrain, prompting immediate civilian evacuations. In Qatar, emergency sirens sounded near the Al Udeid Air Base.
• UAE & Saudi Arabia: Explosions echoed in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Riyadh. UAE authorities confirmed civilian casualties caused by falling debris from intercepted missiles.

III. The Complete Collapse of Nuclear Diplomacy

The outbreak of a full-scale Middle East war follows the failure of the third round of indirect US-Iran nuclear talks in Geneva. Operating under a renewed "maximum pressure" doctrine, the US demanded a complete halt to Iranian uranium enrichment and the dismantling of its long-range missile programs. Iran adamantly refused these conditions.

IV. Global Supply Chain Disruptions and Flight Cancellations

The geopolitical shockwave has caused immediate global logistical disruptions:

• Airspace Closures: Iran has completely closed its airspace. Major airlines have suspended flights to the region, forcing mid-air reroutes and causing massive delays at major international hubs.
• Safety Advisories: Governments worldwide are issuing urgent travel advisories, urging their citizens in the Middle East to shelter in place or evacuate if commercial options remain available.