Kathmandu, February 28, 2026
In a significant escalation of tensions in the Middle East, the United States and Israel have initiated coordinated military strikes against targets in the Islamic Republic of Iran, with multiple explosions reported in central Tehran and elsewhere across the country early Saturday.
According to official statements from the Israeli Defence Forces and confirmed by independent international news agencies, the strikes are described by Israeli officials as “pre-emptive” operations against imminent threats posed by Iranian military and nuclear infrastructure. U.S. defence officials have acknowledged their involvement, deploying air and sea-based assets in support of the mission.
Explosions in Tehran and Iran’s ResponseResidents of Tehran reported loud explosions and observed smoke rising over key districts of the capital. Local authorities have closed Iranian airspace and activated civil defence sirens, urging civilians to seek shelter. Satellite imagery and global monitoring services have since detected secondary blasts in different regions of the country.
The Iranian government has condemned the attack, characterizing it as a blatant act of aggression and promising “swift and decisive” retaliation. The official Iranian news agency reported disruptions in residential and urban areas, though independent verification of casualties remains limited at this time.
Regional Alert and Civilian Precautions
In Israel, air raid sirens sounded in major cities, including Tel Aviv and surrounding urban centers, prompting emergency services to mobilize. The Israeli government has declared heightened readiness, urging residents to remain vigilant.
Neighbouring countries, including Jordan, Turkey, and Gulf Cooperation Council states, have closed air corridors and are closely monitoring spillover risks. International airlines have rerouted flights, and global stock markets have reacted with sharp volatility following the developments.
What Triggered the Strikes?
While both Washington and Jerusalem have long accused Tehran of advancing missile capabilities and destabilizing regional proxies, the latest offensive appears linked to a breakdown in prolonged negotiations over Iran’s nuclear activities and perceived threats to Israeli security. Western diplomatic envoys had been engaged in weeks of talks aimed at de-escalation prior to the attack.
Israeli officials argue that the strikes target strategic missile sites and command infrastructure believed to be poised for imminent use against Israeli or allied assets. U.S. sources emphasize the operation forms part of broader deterrence policy, though critics warn of a dangerous escalation with global implications.
International Reactions and Future Prospects
Global responses have been swift and mixed:
United Nations envoys are calling for restraint and urgent emergency consultations, emphasizing the need to protect civilians and prevent widespread conflict.
European and Asian capitals, including Paris, Beijing, and New Delhi, have urged both sides to de-escalate and return to diplomatic channels, warning of severe humanitarian and economic repercussions.
Major relief organizations are preparing for potential displacement and civilian impact should hostilities spread.
Analysts caution that the unfolding conflict could mark the most serious Middle East confrontation in years, with risks of direct and indirect involvement from regional actors such as Hezbollah, Hamas, and militias aligned with Tehran.
Current Status
Explosions confirmed in Tehran and multiple Iranian provinces.
Air raid sirens active across Israel.
Iranian airspace closed with heightened military defence.
No verified independent reporting on casualties has yet been confirmed.
International diplomatic efforts are mounting amid fears of escalation.
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