On February 28, 2026, the United States and Israel launched a coordinated air and missile campaign against targets in Iran, including sites in the capital Tehran and several major cities. Explosions and plumes of smoke were reported across urban centres as the offensive began early Saturday.
The strikes were described by officials as a pre-emptive operation aimed at degrading Iran’s military and defensive capabilities. President Donald Trump characterised the actions as “major combat operations” against what he termed “imminent threats” to U.S. security and regional stability.
Casualties and Impact
Iranian state media and official sources reported significant civilian casualties, including at least 40 people killed at an elementary girls’ school in Minab, Hormozgan province, with dozens more wounded.
The attacks have triggered panic and disruption across Iran, with mass evacuations from major cities, closure of airspace, and mass movements of residents seeking shelter.
Retaliation and Regional Escalation
Within hours, Iranian forces launched missile and drone retaliation against Israel and U.S. military bases throughout the Gulf region, including Gulf Arab states hosting American assets.
European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, have called for an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council, warning that the conflict could spiral into a broader war and calling for urgent de-escalation.
International Reactions
Russia has condemned the strikes as an “unprovoked act of armed aggression” and urged diplomatic efforts to avoid further instability. Russian officials have offered to help mediate peace and warned of humanitarian and economic consequences if the conflict expands.
Multiple global airlines have suspended flights and rerouted air traffic due to closed airspace over the Middle East, affecting international travel across Europe, Asia, and North America.
Sources
Al Jazeera – Coverage of U.S. and Israel strikes on Iran
Associated Press – Latest updates on the offensive and Trump’s remarks
AP News – Casualties reported at Iranian school
Euronews – European reactions and UN appeals
Associated Press – Russia’s condemnation of strikes
About the Author Brad Socha is the founder of The Universal Record, an independent platform dedicated to sourced, factual reporting on global events. The publication focuses on delivering verified information without opinion or editorial bias. Based in Canada, the publication covers international news, geopolitics, technology, and global developments.
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