On February 28, 2026, the United States and Israel executed a series of airstrikes targeting Iran, including its capital, Tehran. This military action marks an escalation in hostilities that began in June 2025, with U.S. President Donald Trump accusing Iran of supporting militant groups across the region.
According to U.S. officials, the primary objective of the strikes is to dismantle Iran’s missile production capabilities. In retaliation, Iran launched a barrage of missiles and drones aimed at Israeli targets and U.S. military bases throughout the Middle East. Explosions were reported in Israel, Bahrain, where the U.S. Navy is stationed, as well as in Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Riyadh in Saudi Arabia.
The timing of the strikes coincided with President Trump’s dissatisfaction regarding recent negotiations with Iran over its nuclear program. In the weeks leading up to the attacks, the U.S. had increased its military presence in the region, a move that has drawn international scrutiny.
In response to the escalating situation, European Union ambassadors are convening for an emergency meeting on March 1, 2026. This meeting aims to address the implications of the conflict for EU citizens in the region. Additionally, French President Emmanuel Macron has called for a defense and national security council meeting to discuss the situation in Iran and the broader Middle East.
France, Germany, and the United Kingdom have issued a joint statement condemning Iran’s retaliatory attacks and urging a return to diplomatic negotiations. The statement emphasized the need for Iran to cease its nuclear ambitions and ballistic missile program while also addressing destabilizing actions in the region.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the completion of a significant operation against Iran’s strategic defense systems. One of the targeted installations was a modern SA-65 air defense system located in western Iran’s Kermanshah region.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy commented on the strikes, recalling Iran’s support for Russia during its ongoing conflict with Ukraine. He expressed the view that the Iranian regime has been a source of terror and instability and emphasized the importance of protecting civilian lives while preventing the conflict from escalating further.
In light of the recent military actions, President Macron has also called for an urgent United Nations Security Council meeting. He underscored the necessity for Iran to engage constructively in negotiations concerning its nuclear and ballistic programs, stating that the current escalation poses risks to regional stability.
The U.S. and Israel have intensified military operations against Iran, targeting its missile capabilities amid ongoing regional tensions. In response, Iran has launched retaliatory strikes against various locations, prompting international calls for diplomatic resolutions.