The war began on February 28, 2026, when the United States and Israel launched coordinated air and missile strikes on Iran in an operation dubbed Operation Epic Fury (U.S.) and Operation Roaring Lion (Israel). The attacks targeted Iranian military sites, nuclear facilities and command centres across several major cities including Tehran and Isfahan. The strikes reportedly killed Iran’s Supreme Leader, senior commanders and multiple officials, marking a dramatic escalation in hostilities.
Iran’s Retaliation Across the Region
In response, Iran launched wave after wave of missile and drone attacks on Israeli territory and U.S. military bases in the Gulf. Missile salvos and drone strikes extended to countries including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates, resulting in civilian and military casualties. Tensions spread as Iran-backed groups also engaged Israeli forces in Lebanon and other fronts.
Widespread Casualties and Regional Impact
As of early March 2026, thousands of people have been killed or injured in Iran, with additional casualties reported among Lebanese civilians and U.S. military personnel. Attacks in Tehran, Beirut and Gulf states have caused significant infrastructure damage. International agencies express concern over hundreds of children killed in the conflict.
Global Political and Economic Effects
The conflict has reverberated beyond battlefields. The U.S. House of Representatives recently backed President Trump’s war authority, rejecting a resolution that would require congressional approval for continued military action. Meanwhile, disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on oil and LNG facilities have spiked energy prices and rattled global markets.
No Clear End in Sight
U.S. military officials have signalled that operations may be open‑ended, with no fixed timeline for conclusion. Despite claims of degrading Iranian strike capabilities, Tehran continues to launch retaliatory attacks, and diplomatic efforts for de‑escalation are ongoing. The war now involves multiple countries and remains a central geopolitical crisis with far‑reaching regional and global implications.