Israel and the US launched what they called a “preemptive strike” against Iran Saturday morning, plunging the region into chaos as Tehran launched counter strikes that also targeted American military bases across the Gulf.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz first announced the strike that many believed was a long time in making, with the White House stepping up pressure on Tehran over its nuclear programme. Israel declared a state of emergency, expecting retaliation.
US President Donald Trump described the military action as “massive and ongoing”, and plainly called for a regime change. He urged Iranians to “take over your government” and accused Tehran of working to rebuild its nuclear programme.
Tehran has long maintained that its nuclear programme is for civilian purposes only. Iran’s state media said the country was preparing for a “a crushing response”.
Stay tuned to ThePrint for the latest developments.
US, Israel strike Iran | LIVE UPDATES
8 pm: Iranian ballistic missiles target USS Lincoln
Iranian state-run media reported that four ballistic missiles targeted the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier.
The US, however, has denied the claim.
🚫Iran’s IRGC claims to have struck USS Abraham Lincoln with ballistic missiles. LIE.
✅The Lincoln was not hit. The missiles launched didn’t even come close. The Lincoln continues to launch aircraft in support of CENTCOM’s relentless campaign to defend the American people by… pic.twitter.com/AjaeHMemtA— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) March 1, 2026
7.30 pm: Khamenei’s path ‘will continue’, says Iran’s foreign ministry
In a statement issued Sunday, Iran’s foreign ministry condemned the US-Israeli strikes on Tehran which resulted in the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Khamenei.
Khamenei’s path “will continue”, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said.
4.45 pm: Protesters storm US consulate in Karachi
Protesters stormed the US consulate in Karachi to register their opposition to Khamenei’s killing.
Meanwhile, Iranian state media quoted the Tehran Province Red Crescent Society to say that 57 people were killed in US-Israeli strikes in the capital city. Read more in this report by Vaibhav Pant.
Back in Tehran, Ayatollah Alireza Arafi has been appointed as interim Supreme Leader, following Khamenei’s death. He is currently a member of the Guardian Council.
2.15 pm: Iranian jets strike US bases in Gulf countries
Iran’s state-run news agency IRNA reported that Iranian jets struck US bases in the Middle East, and the Kurdistan region of Iraq.
12.30 pm: UAE has destroyed ‘137 missiles, 209 drones’ since start of attack
UAE’s defence ministry says it has intercepted and destroyed 137 ballistic missiles and 209 drones launched toward the country’s territories, since the start of the Iranian attack.
الدفاعات الجوية الإماراتية تتعامل مع 137 صاروخاً و209 طائرة مسيرة
أعلنت وزارة الدفاع أن القوات الجوية والدفاع الجوي لدولة الإمارات العربية المتحدة نجحت منذ بدء الهجوم الإيراني، في التعامل مع وتدمير 137 صاروخاً باليستياً و209 طائرة مسيّرة أُطلقت باتجاه أراضي الدولة، مؤكدةً… pic.twitter.com/93XmWy7AgE
— وزارة الدفاع |MOD UAE (@modgovae) February 28, 2026
“The ministry emphasized that this targeting constitutes a flagrant violation of national sovereignty and international law, and that the state reserves its full right to respond to this escalation and take all necessary measures to protect its territory, people, and residents, in a manner that safeguards its sovereignty, security, and stability, and protects its national interests and assets,” read a statement posted on X.
10.15 am: Sirens sounded across central Israel
The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) have sounded sirens across central Israel, hours after confirming that they struck more than 30 targets in western and central Iran, including aerial defense systems, missile launchers, regime targets and military command centers.
Among the targets struck was a missile launch site in Qom area of central Iran which stored Ghadr H-1 ballistic missiles.
🚨Sirens sounding across central Israel🚨 pic.twitter.com/ZdsfMEBfez
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) March 1, 2026
10 am: Albanese says Australia ‘stands with brave people of Iran’
In a video statement he issued Sunday, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Australia “stands with the brave people of Iran in their struggle against oppression”.
He also said Khamenei was “responsible for the regime’s ballistic missile and nuclear programs, support for armed proxies, and brutal acts of violence and intimidation against its own people”.
My statement on Iran.
Australians requiring urgent consular assistance can contact the Consular Emergency Centre 24/7 on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 from outside Australia. pic.twitter.com/rFYswu9AwN
— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) March 1, 2026
9 am: Khamenei killed in US-Israeli strikes, confirms Tehran
Hours after US President Donald Trump and Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu declared it, state-owned Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) confirmed Sunday that Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in the US-Israel joint strikes on Tehran in the early hours of 28 February.
Tehran has announced a 40-day period of mourning for Khamenei, the 86-year-old who led the revolution against the rule of the Shah of Iran Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, reports Keshav Padmanabhan.
A three-member council will oversee the transition of power following Khamenei’s killing. The council will comprise Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian, head of the judiciary Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Ejei and a senior jurist.
The state-run IRNA news agency also confirmed that Mohammad Pakpour, commander-in-chief of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, as well as Ali Shamkhani, secretary of Iran’s Defence Council, were among those killed in the strikes.
12.45 am: Netanyahu says ‘signs’ Khamenei ‘no longer with us’
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says there are ‘signs’ Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is ‘no longer with us’.
He also says Khamenei’s compound was struck during the operation which the US is calling ‘Op Epic Fury’.
The statement comes after UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in a televised address said British planes are “in the sky” in the Middle East “to protect our people, our interests and our allies”.
Starmer added: “Iran can end this now. They should refrain from further strikes, give up their weapons programme and cease the appalling violence and oppression of the Iranian people—who deserve the right to determine their own future.”
10.45 pm: Israel launches another wave of strikes on Iran
The Israeli Air Force announced that it has launched a new wave of strikes targeting missile launchers and air defences in central Iran.
Meanwhile, the military in Jordan said it intercepted a barrage of drones and ballistic missiles.
10.15 pm: Iranian media says Strait of Hormuz to be closed
Iranian news agency Tasnim is reporting that the Strait of Hormuz, from where one-fifth of global oil supply passes, will be closed.
Tasnim, affiliated with Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, said ships are receiving messages from IRGC, saying that no ship is permitted to go through the Strait.
9.30 pm: Fire at Dubai hotel
News agencies report a fire near Fairmont The Palm hotel in Dubai, shortly after Iranian media reported an attack was launched. The UAE said it had intercepted a new wave of Iranian missiles and drones.
Separately, a drone strike was reported at the Kuwait International Airport. It caused minor injuries and limited damage to a terminal.
Hotel (Fairmont The Palm) hit in Dubai pic.twitter.com/nmxk9IAL4j
— Michael A. Horowitz (@michaelh992) February 28, 2026
8.35 pm: ‘May have lost few commanders’
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi told NBC News that “we may have lost few commanders, but that’s not such a big problem”.
Reuters had reported, quoting sources, that Iran’s defence minister and Revolutionary Guards commander were believed to have been killed in Israeli attacks.
8.15 pm: British planes ‘in the sky’ as part of ‘defensive op’, Starmer says
UK PM Keir Starmer said in a televised statement British planes “are in the sky today” in West Asia “as part of co-ordinated regional defensive operations to protect our people, our interests and our values”.
8.10 pm: IDF says ‘broad strike’ completed
Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) said the military has “completed a broad strike” on the Iranian regime.
“One of the strikes was directed toward an advanced SA-65 aerial defence system located in the Kermanshah area in western Iran… These strikes were conducted in order to establish and enhance the Israeli Air Force’s freedom of operation over Iranian aerial territory, in order to degrade the IRGC’s (Iranian Revolutionary Guard’s) capabilities and to thwart threats toward the home front of the State of Israel,” it said in a post on Twitter.
8.05 pm: Another possible impact of conflict to be seen in oil trading
Reuters reported sources as saying that some oil majors and trading houses have suspended crude oil and fuel shipments via the Strait of Hormuz as the conflict in the region escalates.
About a fifth of the world’s total oil consumption passes through the strait.
8 pm: ‘Iran’s Defence Minister, Revolutionary Guards commander killed’
Iran’s Defence Minister Amir Nasirzadeh and Revolutionary Guards commander Mohammed Pakpour are believed to have been killed in Israeli attacks, two sources familiar with Israel’s military operations and one regional source told Reuters.
He also said Supreme Leader Khamenei was alive “as far as I know”.
There’s no independent confirmation on this.
7.50 pm: UK, France & Germany issue joint statement
In a joint statement, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz say the three countries “did not participate” in Saturday’s strikes.
They said they have “consistently urged the Iranian regime to end” its nuclear programme and repression of its people.
“We condemn Iranian attacks on countries in the region in the strongest terms. Iran must refrain from indiscriminate military strikes. We urge the Iranian leadership to seek a negotiated solution. Ultimately, the Iranian people must be allowed to determine their future,” the statement read.
7.45 pm: What’s happening in Iran?
According to Al Jazeera, there’s heavy traffic moving out of Tehran. This is after the country’s Supreme National Security Council told residents to leave the capital. There are an estimated 10 million residents.
Non-profits in Iran have said that at least 20 out of 32 provinces have been targeted in American and Israeli strikes.
The Iranian regime has urged people not to panic and hoard items, and asserted that it has prepared for eventualities.
Separately, the US Agency for Global Media said on Twitter it was using satellite technology to transmit Trump’s address, urging Iranians to take over their government, in the country.
.@POTUS: “To the great, proud people of Iran, the hour of Freedom is at hand.”@VOAFarsi has significantly expanded in recent months and is delivering President Trump’s message directly to the brave people of Iran across every available platform, including satellite. https://t.co/uTEIMLi4TD
— U.S. Agency for Global Media (@USAGM) February 28, 2026
7.40 pm: UAE says Pakistani national died in Iranian attacks on its soil
UAE said in a statement that a Pakistani national died as a “result of these attacks”. Expressing condolences, it said that it condemns targeting of civilians and civilian areas.
7.30 pm: India ‘deeply concerned’, urges restraint
Days after PM Modi’s visit to Israel and hours after US-Israel launched the strikes on Iran, the Ministry of External Affairs has released a statement, saying India is “deeply concerned at the recent developments in Iran and the Gulf region”.
“We urge all sides to exercise restraint, avoid escalation, and prioritise the safety of civilians. Dialogue and diplomacy should be pursued to de-escalate tensions and address underlying issues. Sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states must be respected,” MEA said in first reaction from the Indian government.
The statement added, “Our Missions in the region are in touch with Indian nationals and have issued appropriate advisories asking them to remain vigilant, stay in contact with the Missions, and follow local security guidance.”
7.15 pm: No news on Trump’s address
Axios reported earlier that Trump would address the nation Saturday morning. But the White House has said reports that Trump would do so are inaccurate and that it has not given any guidance on a presidential address or remarks.
Trump is currently at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida.
7.05 pm: Explosion reported in Chabahar port
Reuters reports that an explosion was heard in Iran’s southeastern port city of Chabahar, where India had invested heavily.
6.45 pm: Saudi Arabia condemns Iranian response
Saudi Arabia condemned Iran’s retaliation, with its foreign ministry saying in a post on X: “The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia condemns and denounces in strongest terms the blatant Iranian aggression and the flagrant violation of the sovereignty of the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and Jordan. The Kingdom affirms its full solidarity with and unwavering support for the brotherly countries, and its readiness to place all its capabilities at their disposal in support of any measures they may undertake. It also warns of the grave consequences resulting from the continued violation of states’ sovereignty and the principles of international law.”
6.40 pm: Expert says US, Israel objective goes beyond nuclear programme
The joint war on Iran began shortly after Oman’s foreign minister — a key mediator in U.S.–Iran talks — publicly disclosed that Tehran had agreed, during negotiations, to surrender its enriched uranium stockpiles and forswear the acquisition of nuclear weapons indefinitely. The… https://t.co/DmRd8SfhF6
— Dr. Brahma Chellaney (@Chellaney) February 28, 2026
6.30 pm: Civil aviation ministry reviews preparedness
Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu on Saturday reviewed preparedness to ensure passenger safety, operational continuity and real-time coordination in light of multiple airspace restrictions amid the conflict in West Asia, PTI reports.
“Indian carriers operating international services have been advised to continuously monitor airspace advisories, NOTAMs, and route restrictions issued by the concerned authorities. Airlines have been directed to ensure timely rerouting or diversion of flights, wherever required, strictly in accordance with global safety protocols and established contingency planning procedures,” the ministry of civil aviation said in a statement.
The ministry said it was also in touch with the external affairs ministry to “ensure seamless information flow and appropriate coordination in case of any emergent requirements involving Indian carriers or Indian nationals abroad”.
6.20 pm: Blasts heard in Dubai, sirens blare in Tel Aviv
At least three big explosions were heard in Dubai, international media is reporting. And IDF has warned of another wave of missile attacks launched by Iran.
6.15 pm: Iran strike in Syria kills 4
Reuters quotes state news agency SANA as saying that an Iranian missile struck a building in Syria’s Sweida, killing at least four.
It also quotes witnesses who reported dozens of interceptor missiles in the skies over Damascus, after the US and Israel launched their attack on Iran.
5.50 pm: Iran says 40 students killed in Israel strike
Iranian media has reported that the death toll from an Israeli strike on an elementary girls’ school in Minab city of Hormozgan province has touched 40. It was earlier reported to be 24.
5.45 pm: Oman tells US—’This is not your war’
Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi urged the US “not to get sucked in further” in the war. Albusaidi, who said he was “dismayed” by Saturday’s developments, was the one mediating the recent rounds of indirect talks between the US and Iran.
Albusaidi had held talks with US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner in Switzerland’s Geneva two days earlier.
I am dismayed. Active and serious negotiations have yet again been undermined. Neither the interests of the United States nor the cause of global peace are well served by this. And I pray for the innocents who will suffer. I urge the United States not to get sucked in further.…
— Badr Albusaidi – بدر البوسعيدي (@badralbusaidi) February 28, 2026
5.40 pm: Macron says ‘dangerous escalation must stop’
French President Emmanuel Macron, in first remarks since the US and Israel jointly attacked Iran, said this conflict has “grave consequences” for international peace and security.
“The current escalation is dangerous for everyone. It must stop,” he said, adding that France was ready to deploy “necessary resources to protect its closest partners, should they request it”.
5.35 pm: Iran ‘launches drones’ at Israel
Iranian army said it has launched its first large-scale drone attack against Israel.
5.20 pm: Right of self-defence, says Iran
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the country will use its right of self-defence to protect itself.
In a statement, Araghchi said he has spoken to leaders in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Iraq, and told them Iran will use “all its defensive and military capabilities under legitimate right of self-defence” to protect the country.
Araghchi said he has also reminded these countries of “their responsibility to prevent the misuse of their facilities and territories” by the US and Israel to attack, according to the statement.
5.15 pm: Satellite image ‘shows damage to Khamenei’s compound’
A New York Times journalist posted what is supposed to be the official residence of Iran’s Supreme Leader. “We obtained the first known satellite image of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s compound in Tehran,” he wrote.
Iran’s news agencies have repeatedly said the Supreme Leader was safe. On other senior leaders being targeted, Fars said they are in “perfect health”.
We obtained the first known satellite image of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's compound in Tehran. There are several destroyed buildings. While the current whereabouts of Iran's supreme leader are unknown, the compound is generally used as his official residence. 🛰️📸: @Airbus pic.twitter.com/48krjclMBL
— Christiaan Triebert (@trbrtc) February 28, 2026
5.10 pm: Rahul Gandhi urges govt to ensure Indians remain safe
Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi wrote on Twitter that the rapidly escalating hostilities between US-Israel and Iran were deeply concerning.
“The safety and security of every Indian citizen across the Middle East must be our highest priority. I urge the Government of India to take immediate and proactive measures to safeguard our people,” he said.
5.05 pm: Iranian media says 24 students killed
According to Iran’s Fars news agency, 24 students died in the Israeli strike on an elementary girls’ school in Minab, Hormozgan province.
5 pm: Pakistan condemns ‘unwarranted’ attacks against Iran
Pakistan Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar “strongly condemned the unwarranted attacks against Iran and called for an immediate halt to escalation through urgent resumption of diplomacy to achieve a peaceful, negotiated resolution to the crisis”.
4.20 pm: Explosions in Tel Aviv, Qatar says reserves right to respond
Al Jazeera reported Iranian military as saying that it is launching a new wave of missiles, these targeting Israel. Shortly after, reports emerged of explosions heard in Tel Aviv.
Separately, Qatar’s Foreign Ministry said in a strong statement that it reserves the right to respond, in accordance with international law, after Iranian missile strikes there.
So far, Iran has targeted Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, Al-Salem Air Base in Kuwait, Al-Dhafra Air Base in the UAE, US naval base in Bahrain, Muwaffaq Al-Salti Air Base in Jordan and another base in northern Iraq. The extent of the damage is unknown.
4.10 pm: Jordan added to list of targets?
Jordan’s military was the latest to confirm that its air defences had intercepted two ballistic missiles.
CNN reported Iran’s armed forces spokesperson as saying that the army will deliver a “historic lesson” to Israel and the US after strikes on Iranian cities. “As we have already stated, any base anywhere in the region that assists Israel will be a target of the sacred Islamic Republic and our armed forces, and we will show no hesitation,” Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi told local media.
4 pm: Israeli strikes ‘targeted’ senior Iranian leaders
Sources told CNN that Israeli strikes on Iran targeted senior political and military leaders. These, the report said, included Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, armed forces Chief of Staff Sayyid Abdolrahim Mousavi, and President Masoud Pezeshkian.
Iran, in what was one of its first statements after the strikes, had said that Khamenei was safe. There was no response on other targets.
BBC said the office of the Supreme Leader and the presidential office in Tehran were among Israel’s targets. The other targets were military sides in Kermanshah, Qum, Isfahan, Tabriz, Karaj and Kenarak.
There are unconfirmed reports that the commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) was eliminated in Israeli strikes.
3.55 pm: World leaders react
The European Union’s foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said the latest developments were “perilous”, but added that “Iran’s regime has killed thousands. Its ballistic missile and nuclear programmes, along with support for terror groups, pose a serious threat to global security”.
“I have spoken to Israel’s Foreign Minister Saar and other ministers in the region. The EU is also coordinating closely with Arab partners to explore diplomatic paths… Protection of civilians and international humanitarian law is a priority,” she wrote on X.
Australian PM Anthony Albanese said in a post on X: “Australia stands with the brave people of Iran in their struggle against oppression.”
Australia stands with the brave people of Iran in their struggle against oppression.
For decades, the Iranian regime has been a destabilising force, through its ballistic missile and nuclear programs, support for armed proxies, and brutal acts of violence and intimidation.
Iran…
— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) February 28, 2026
Ukraine’s foreign ministry said in a statement that the escalation in Iran was the fault of authorities in the country, adding that Kyiv stood with the Iranian people.
Switzerland’s foreign ministry said it is “deeply alarmed by today’s strikes by the US and Israel against Iran” and urged “all parties to exercise maximum restraint, protect civilians and civilian infrastructure”.
3.50 pm: Trump to address nation, says report
Trump is expected to address the nation again on Saturday, Axios reported, without giving a time. It is about 5.20 am in Washington DC currently.
3.45 pm: Iran says it knew of US, Israel ‘intentions’
Iran’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement that although Tehran was aware of the “intentions” of the US and Israel to carry out attacks, they entered the negotiations regardless.
The latest round of indirect talks on Iran’s nuclear capabilities ended Thursday without any breakthrough.
Incidentally, the talks were mediated by Oman, which remains one of the few countries in the region that hasn’t been targeted by Iranian missiles till now. Oman is home to American air force bases.
3.35 pm: Norway asks if US-Israel attack in line with international law
Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide said Israel defined the attack on Iran as a preventive strike, but it was “not in line with international law”.
Preventive attacks require an immediately imminent threat,” he said in an emailed statement to Reuters. He added that he was worried this was escalating into a larger conflict across West Asia.
3.30 pm: 1 killed in Abu Dhabi, report says
At least one person was killed in Abu Dhabi after the UAE intercepted Iranian missiles, according to Al Jazeera, which is citing the country’s state news agency.
The UAE said “this attack is a flagrant violation of national sovereignty and international law… it reserves its full right to respond to this escalation”.
3.25 pm: UK says it doesn’t want wider conflict
A British government spokesperson said Saturday that the UK does “not want to see further escalation into a wider regional conflict”.
The statement, reported by BBC, said: “Our immediate priority is the safety of UK nationals in the region and we will provide them with consular assistance, available 24/7.”
“As part of our longstanding commitments to the security of our allies in the Middle East, we have a range of defensive capabilities in the region, which we have recently bolstered. We stand ready to protect our interests,” it added.
3.15 pm: Iran targets US bases in West Asia
The Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait, Al Dhafra Air Base in the UAE, and the US Fifth Fleet base in Bahrain were targeted by Iranian missile attacks, Fars news agency said, citing the Iranian Revolutionary Guards.
Iran had earlier warned that if attacked, it reserved the right to strike American military assets across other countries.
3.05 pm: Russia’s first reaction—’Peacemaker at it again’
Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chair of Security Council of Russia and former Prime Minister, said in a post on X that the US’s negotiations with Iran were “just a cover”.
“The peacekeeper is at it again. The talks with Iran were just a cover. Everyone knew that. So who has more patience to wait for the enemy’s sorry end now? The US is just 249 years old. The Persian Empire was founded over 2500 years ago. Let’s see what happens in 100 years or so…” he wrote.
The peacekeeper is at it again. The talks with Iran were just a cover. Everyone knew that. So who has more patience to wait for the enemy’s sorry end now? The US is just 249 years old. The Persian Empire was founded over 2500 years ago. Let’s see what happens in 100 years or so…
— Dmitry Medvedev (@MedvedevRussiaE) February 28, 2026
3 pm: Chaos across West Asia
There are now emerging reports of explosions in multiple other US partner nations, including Kuwait, Jordan, and the UAE. These strikes are yet to be confirmed.
According to Reuters, a loud explosion was heard in Abu Dhabi
Israel’s IDF has said the air force is currently conducting a “broad strike on a number of military targets belonging to the Iranian regime in western Iran”.
2.30 pm: Ripple effect of US-Israel strikes felt in other countries
Military action from both the sides appears to be evolving rapidly.
Reports say an explosion was heard in Manama, Bahrain, and the UAE has partially closed its airspace. Bahrain’s state media reports that the US Fifth Fleet in Manama was targeted in an Iranian missile attack.
With this, advisories also roll in.
“In view of the current regional situation, all Indian nationals in Qatar are advised to take due care, follow news and advisories as and when issued by the Embassy and local authorities. Our Embassy is continuing to function as usual. Embassy’s 24×7 helpline number is 00974-55647502 and email for addressing any query is cons.doha@mea.gov.in,” the Indian Embassy in Qatar said.
2.25 pm: Qatar closes airspace, sirens blare in Bahrain
Reports incoming about Qatar closing its airspace and sirens blaring in Bahrain. They host US air bases, and a US naval fleet. Earlier in the week, US had begun relocating its troops and assets from key bases in Qatar and Bahrain to minimise their risks.
The US Embassy in Qatar has issued a duck and cover warning for Americans there until further notice.
In other implications of the strikes, Yemen’s Iranian-backed Houthi rebels are set to resume attacks on shipping in the Red Sea corridor, news agency AP reported, citing rebel officials.
The Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has said in a statement on Twitter that he will not accept anyone dragging “the country into adventures that threaten its security and unity”.
“In light of the dangerous developments unfolding in the region, I reiterate my appeal to all Lebanese to exercise wisdom and patriotism, placing the interests of Lebanon and the Lebanese people above all else,” Salam said.
The statement is perceived as a message for Hezbollah not to intervene.
2.20 pm: Internet blackout in Iran
Iran is experiencing a near-total internet blackout, according to watchdog Netblocks.
“Confirmed: Network data show #Iran is now in the midst of a near-total internet blackout with national connectivity at 4% or ordinary levels.” Netblocks wrote in a Twitter post.
⚠️ Confirmed: Network data show #Iran is now in the midst of a near-total internet blackout with national connectivity at 4% or ordinary levels. The incident comes amid US and Israeli combat operations and matches measures used during last year's war with Israel. pic.twitter.com/1XunOr4Q19
— NetBlocks (@netblocks) February 28, 2026
Iranians could not connect to the internet for the most part of January as the regime cracked down on anti-government protests.
2.17 pm: Operation Epic Fury & Lion Roar
As per statements from both the US and Israel, the two countries have given separate names for their operations in Iran.
The US’s is: Operation Epic Fury, and Israel’s is Operation ‘The Roar of the Lion’. Incidentally, Israel’s attack on Iran in June 2025 was named Operation Rising Lion.
https://twitter.com/DeptofWar/status/2027662002219302929?s=20
2.15 pm: Air India diverts flight
Air India said it has diverted to Mumbai a flight from Delhi that was bound for Tel Aviv.
Travel Advisory
We are closely monitoring regional updates concerning Iran and its airspace.
The safety and security of our customers and crew remain our highest priority. Our teams stand prepared to implement any necessary adjustments as the situation evolves.
Customers are…
— IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) February 28, 2026
2.05 pm: What were the US-Israeli strikes’ targets?
Videos on social media claim that the US-Israeli strikes targeted the Iran intelligence headquarters, along with the headquarters of the Supreme Leader. None of these are confirmed.
There are also claims by Israeli military that it has eliminated Iran military commander; no confirmation of that either.
There’s online chatter of the Iranian port city of Chabahar being under attack too. India had invested heavily in the port, which gave New Delhi access to Central Asia and Afghanistan, bypassing the traditional land route via Pakistan. It was once seen as a strategic outlet for India, but the Union Budget 2026-27 made no allocation for the port for the first time in almost a decade, ThePrint reported earlier this month.
The move came as US was applying pressure on on countries to curtail its investments in Iran.
1.55 pm: Netanyahu calls for Iranian people to ‘take destiny’ into their hands
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement, which says that the country in collaboration with the US has begun the operation to “remove” the “existential threat” posed by the “terrorist regime in Iran”.
“My brothers and sisters, citizens of Israel, a short time ago, Israel and the United States embarked on an operation to remove the existential threat posed by the terrorist regime in Iran… I thank our great friend, President Donald Trump, for his historic leadership. For 47 years, the Ayatollah regime has been shouting ‘Death to Israel,’ ‘Death to America.’
“It has spilled our blood, murdered many Americans, and massacred its own people. This murderous terrorist regime must not be armed with nuclear weapons that would allow it to threaten all of humanity. Our joint action will create the conditions for the courageous Iranian people to take their destiny into their own hands.
“The time has come for all segments of the Iranian people – the Persians, the Kurds, the Azeris, the Baluchis, and the Ahwazis – to throw off the yoke of tyranny and bring about a free and peaceful Iran.
“I appeal to you, the citizens of Israel, to listen to the instructions of the Home Front Command. In the coming days, in Operation ‘The Roar of the Lion,’ we will all be required to have endurance and fortitude.
“Together we will stand, together we will fight, and together we will ensure the eternity of Israel.”
1.45 pm: Strikes continuing in Iran
Reuters port city Bushehr has been attacked, state media reported. It is unclear whether the Bushehr nuclear power plant was damage.
Separately, US officials have told international media that it is expecting a multi-day operation.
1.40 pm: Iran retaliation begins, IDF says air force intercepting threats
And it appears to have begun.
Reports say Israel has missile launches from Iran and has asked its citizens to move to bomb shelters. News agency AP also reports that Israel has ordered citizens across country to shift to bomb shelters.
The Israeli Defence Forces said in a statement that Iran has fired retaliatory strikes.
“At this time, the Israeli Air Force is operating to intercept and strike threats where necessary to remove the threat… The defense is not hermetic, and therefore it is essential that the public continue to adhere to the Home Front Command’s guidelines,” it said.
A short while ago, the IDF identified missiles launched from Iran toward Israel.
Defensive systems are operating to intercept the threat. In the past few minutes, the Home Front Command has sent a precautionary directive directly to mobile phones in the relevant areas.
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) February 28, 2026
Israel's Homefront Command has announced that missiles have been launched from Iran and that missile alerts are to be expected "in the coming minutes."
— OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) February 28, 2026
1.35 pm: Exiled Crown Prince reacts
Exiled ‘Crown Prince’ Reza Pahlavi, who has touted himself as the next leader of a free Iran, posted on Twitter:
“In these sensitive hours and days, more than ever, we must stay focused on our ultimate goal: reclaiming Iran.
I ask you to remain in your homes for now and preserve your safety and security. Stay vigilant and ready so that, at the appropriate time—which I will announce to you precisely—you can return to the streets for the final action.”
1.30 pm: Iran’s state media says President safe
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is “safe and sound”, state media reported on Saturday, following US and Israeli strikes on the Islamic republic. “President Masoud Pezeshkian is safe and sound and has no problems,” the IRNA news agency reported, alongside the Mehr and ISNA agencies.
1.25 pm: Indians in Iran told to avoid ‘unnecessary movements’
In another advisory, the Indian Embassy in Iran, “In view of the developing situation, all Indian nationals in Iran are advised to exercise utmost caution, avoid unnecessary movements. Indians may also continue to monitor the news, maintain situational awareness and await and further guidance from the Embassy of India.”
ADVISORY as on 28 February 2026 pic.twitter.com/BqQv9AfNAl
— India in Iran (@India_in_Iran) February 28, 2026
1.06 pm: Trump confirms US involvement
Donald Trump says in a video on Truth Social that the US has begun “major combat operations” in Iran. “Our objective is to defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime,” he said.
He also confirms that the US is seeking a regime change in Iran. In the video message, President Trump vows to “destroy” Iran’s missiles and “annihilate” its navy, warns “we may have casualties” during the operation. “Take over your government,” Trump tells Iranian, adding that America is “backing you”.
“This is the moment for action. Do not let it pass,” he says.
1.05 pm: Tehran ‘preparing for retaliation’
An Iranian official told Reuters that Tehran is preparing for retaliation after Israel, in coordination with the US, launched an attack Saturday morning. The response will be crushing, the official said.
1 pm: Last round of talks days ago
Longtime adversaries Iran and the United States held their third round of Oman-mediated nuclear talks on Thursday in Geneva, seeking to avert military escalation as Washington expands its military build-up in the region.
A day later, Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi said that in order to reach a deal, the United States will have to drop its “excessive demands”. “Success in this path requires seriousness and realism from the other side and avoidance of any miscalculation and excessive demands”, Aragchi told Egypt’s top diplomat Badr Abdelatty in a phone call, according to news agency AFP.
Trump, referring to the talks in brief comments on Friday, voiced frustration with Iran’s stance. “We’re not exactly happy with the way they negotiated. They cannot have nuclear weapons, and we’re not thrilled with the way they’re negotiating,” Trump told reporters.
12.55 pm: India issues advisory for citizens in Israel
The Indian Embassy in Israel has issued an advisory to citizens to exercise “utmost caution”.
“In view of the prevailing security situation in the region, all Indian nationals in Israel are advised to exercise utmost caution and remain vigilant at all times. Indian nationals are strongly advised to strictly adhere to the safety guidelines and instructions issued by the Israeli authorities and the Home Front Command,” it reads.
In view of the prevailing security situation in the region, all Indian nationals in Israel are advised to exercise utmost caution and remain vigilant at all times. Indian nationals are strongly advised to strictly adhere to the safety guidelines and instructions issued by the… pic.twitter.com/xFKQG2doTl
— ANI (@ANI) February 28, 2026
The Indian Embassy in Jordan has also issued a similar advisory, says tourists are advised to leave the country before commercial flights are disrupted.
12.50 pm: Israel and Iran both close airspace
Israel has closed its airspace to civilian flights following the attack on Iran, the country’s media reports.
Tasnim News Agency, state media linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, reports Iran’s airspace has also been closed.
Flight tracking app shows how commercial air travel is diverting to avoid flying over the two countries.
Israel says it has launched a pre-emptive attack on Iran.
· Iranian airspace is now closed by NOTAM until at least 1200 UTC
· Flights are also diverting away from Tel Aviv and Amman.https://t.co/f3eeIzqVaZ pic.twitter.com/fOnJ9U7IKX— Flightradar24 (@flightradar24) February 28, 2026
12.30 pm: ‘Khamenei not in Tehran’
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei is not in Tehran, has been moved to a secure location, an official told Reuters.
Talks of a regime change have simmered since large-scale anti-government protests in Tehran in recent months. At the time, US President Donald Trump said, “Help is on the way”. While America did not intervene at the time, Trump has repeatedly backed the idea of a regime change: describing such an outcome as “the best thing that could happen” in comments earlier this month.
The idea also appeals to Trump, whose forces in January went into Venezuela and captured the country’s leader Nicolas Maduro before bringing him on American soil to face charges there.
According to reports, Israeli media is saying the intent of the strikes is “regime change”.
12.05 pm: Iranian media show images of strike in Tehran
BBC reports at least three explosions heard in downtown Tehran.
12 pm: Israel declares emergency
In the last few minutes, sirens were sounded all throughout Israel, with an advance instruction alert directly to cellular devices to stay within proximity to protected spaces.
This is a proactive alert to prepare the public for the possibility of missiles being launched toward…
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) February 28, 2026
President of piece at work ! What a laughable stock this narcissist is !