Early Morning Military Action Shakes Tehran and Region
In a significant escalation of Middle East tensions on 28 February 2026, Israel announced it had carried out a pre-emptive military strike against Iran, with explosions heard in the Iranian capital Tehran and other urban centres. Smoke plumes were visible over the skyline, and air-raid sirens sounded within Tehran and in parts of Israel as the conflict intensified. Officials from both Israel and the United States described the offensive as a necessary step to counter perceived threats from Tehran’s missile and defence infrastructure.
Coordinated Strikes and Regional Emergency Measures
According to defence statements, the strikes were executed in concert with the United States, with aerial and sea-based forces participating in the operation. President Donald Trump declared the beginning of “major combat operations” against Iran, asserting the mission’s goals include dismantling missile systems and naval capabilities Washington and Jerusalem say pose threats. Sirens were reported in Israeli cities including Tel Aviv, and both Israel and Iran closed their airspace amid mounting security concerns.
Iranian authorities confirmed multiple explosions in Tehran, with additional blasts reported in central cities such as Isfahan and Qom. The action reportedly targeted regime and military sites, including ballistic missile facilities, though independent casualty figures remain unavailable. As tensions rise, phone networks in parts of Iran were disrupted, and businesses and air travel have been affected by the emergency measures.
Responses, Retaliation Warnings and Wider Implications
Tehran has denounced the strikes, with Iranian officials promising a “crushing” response to what they termed as unprovoked attacks. International advisory bodies and several governments, including India, have issued safety warnings to their citizens in the region, urging vigilance and caution as the situation unfolds. Analysts suggest this military engagement could have significant implications for relations between global powers, regional stability, and future diplomatic efforts related to Iran’s nuclear programme.
