Trump says U.S. has started major combat operations in Iran

Smoke rises on the skyline after an explosion in Tehran, Iran, Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026.(AP Photo)

U.S. and Israeli forces launched coordinated strikes against targets in Iran, prompting retaliatory attacks on American bases in the region, as President Donald Trump stated that “major combat operations” were underway.

The development marked a sharp escalation in tensions between Washington, Tel Aviv and Tehran. Military assets from the United States and Israel struck multiple locations inside Iran. Initial reports indicated the use of air power and long-range weapons. Details on the scale of damage, casualties or specific targets remained limited at the time of reporting.

Iran responded with missile and drone attacks on U.S. military installations across parts of the Middle East. Security officials in the region reported incoming fire toward bases known to host American personnel. The number of casualties, if any, had not been independently verified.

Trump confirmed the operations in a public statement, describing them as “major combat operations” involving U.S. forces in cooperation with Israel. He said the actions were directed against what he described as Iranian military capabilities and infrastructure. The White House did not disclose the full scope or expected duration of the campaign.

Israeli officials acknowledged participation in the strikes, stating that their military acted against what they called Iranian threats in the region. The government did not release detailed information about the specific nature of its role or the number of assets deployed.

Iranian authorities condemned the attacks, calling the joint operation an act of aggression against their sovereignty. Officials in Tehran said the country would respond to any foreign military action on its territory. State media reported that Iranian forces had launched counterstrikes on U.S. bases in neighboring countries, though independent confirmation of those claims remained limited.

Regional governments reported heightened security alerts around military facilities and key infrastructure. Several Middle Eastern countries increased air defense readiness. Civil aviation authorities reviewed flight paths and issued advisories to commercial airlines operating in affected airspace, with some routes adjusted to avoid conflict zones.

International organizations monitored the situation closely. Diplomatic missions in the region reported contact with host governments regarding the security of their nationals and facilities. Some embassies advised citizens to avoid areas near military sites and critical infrastructure. Foreign ministries in multiple countries called for restraint to prevent further escalation.

Oil markets reacted to reports of active combat in and around Iran, with traders watching for signs of disruption to shipping lanes and production facilities. Military activity near key energy chokepoints raised concerns about potential impacts on global supply chains.

At the Pentagon, officials confirmed that U.S. forces were engaged in ongoing operations, citing the need to protect American personnel and interests in the region. They declined to provide real-time information on troop movements, specific targets or operational timelines for security reasons.

In Israel, the military indicated it remained on high alert. Authorities urged residents in some areas to follow guidance regarding shelters and emergency procedures, with siren systems and civil defense measures placed on standby for potential retaliatory action by Iran or allied groups.

Iran’s leadership convened emergency meetings of senior military and political officials, according to state outlets, which reported that the country’s armed forces were placed on elevated readiness. Iranian commanders said further responses would depend on the scale and continuation of foreign military operations on Iranian territory.

The United Nations and several major powers continued to monitor the unfolding situation. Diplomatic channels between capitals remained active, and discussions were underway in some governments about possible emergency sessions to address the crisis. No formal international resolution had been announced at the time of reporting.

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