US and Israel Launch Major Attacks on Iran as Trump Announces “Combat Operations”

In a dramatic escalation that could reshape global geopolitics, the **United States and Israel have launched coordinated military strikes against the Iran on 28 February 2026, marking one of the most serious confrontations in recent decades. U.S. President **Donald Trump announced that “major combat operations” are underway, signaling a full-scale offensive aimed at crippling Iran’s military and nuclear capabilities.

The offensive has sent shockwaves through the Middle East and beyond, with explosions reported in Tehran and other Iranian cities, retaliatory strikes launched by Tehran’s forces, and fears of a broader regional war emerging almost immediately.

Trump Declares “Major Combat Operations” and Urges Regime Change

In an eight-minute video message posted on social media, President Trump announced that U.S. military forces had begun “major combat operations” in Iran, describing the action as necessary to eliminate “imminent threats” posed by Tehran’s nuclear program and support for proxy groups. He framed the strikes as defensive measures to protect the United States, its troops, and its allies from what he described as decades of hostile behavior by the Iranian regime.

Trump’s address went beyond military justification; he appealed directly to the Iranian people, urging them to rise up against their leadership once the military phase of the conflict progresses. In his remarks, he warned Iranian security forces that they must lay down their arms or face severe consequences, and he again stressed that Iran must never obtain nuclear weapons.

Explosions Heard, Airspaces Closed, and Immediate Retaliation

Multiple explosions were reported across Iran, including in the capital Tehran, as Israeli and U.S. air and missile strikes hit military infrastructure and strategic sites. Iranian state media described the attacks as an “aerial Zionist aggression,” and the country’s airspace was closed in response.

As expected, Iran responded swiftly. Its forces launched missiles and drones toward Israel and U.S. bases in the region, including locations in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar, heightening fears of a broader escalation that could draw in neighboring states.

Reasons Cited for the Offensive

Trump and U.S. officials pointed to a mixture of longstanding grievances: Iran’s continued development of nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities, its backing of proxy groups throughout the Middle East, and a pattern of anti-American rhetoric and actions stretching back decades. They argue that diplomatic efforts had repeatedly failed and that decisive military action was therefore necessary.

Israeli leaders have echoed this logic, framing the strikes as a pre-emptive necessity to protect their nation from threats emanating from Iran’s military infrastructure.

Global Reaction and Regional Fallout

The offensive has provoked intense international reaction. Many countries — including key U.S. allies — have expressed concern about an escalation that could engulf the wider Middle East. Strategic chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz and global oil markets face increased uncertainty as tensions rise and fears of supply disruptions grow.

Organizations like the United Nations are being urged to convene emergency discussions, while diplomats from across the world are sounding calls for restraint to avoid a full-blown war that could extend far beyond Iran’s borders.

What Comes Next

As the situation continues to develop, few details are confirmed with precision amid the fog of war. U.S. and Israeli officials indicate that the operation could last for days or longer, and American casualties may occur as the offensive unfolds. The coming hours and days will be critical in determining whether this confrontation remains limited or expands into a prolonged conflict involving multiple nations.

Disclaimer

This article synthesizes the latest available reporting from major news outlets on the ongoing U.S. and Israeli military strikes against Iran and President Donald Trump’s announcement of “major combat operations” on 28 February 2026. Details may evolve rapidly as events unfold, and this summary reflects verified information at the time of writing.