Israel Launches Strikes on Iran With U.S. Support; Trump Confirms American Role
Tehran/Jerusalem/Washington, February 28, 2026: Israel launched coordinated airstrikes on targets inside Iran early Saturday, with multiple explosions reported in the capital, Tehran, in a dramatic escalation of regional tensions.
The United States confirmed it supported the operation. In a public announcement, President Donald Trump said American forces participated alongside Israel, describing the strikes as necessary to counter what he called growing threats from Iran’s nuclear and missile programs. He warned Tehran against retaliation and said the U.S. would defend its interests and allies in the region.
Israeli officials characterized the operation as a pre-emptive move targeting strategic military infrastructure. Iran responded by closing its airspace and activating air defenses, while Israel declared a nationwide state of emergency amid fears of counterstrikes.
The joint action marks one of the most serious direct confrontations in years, heightening concerns of a wider Middle East conflict and prompting volatility in global energy markets.