The Middle East is facing a major crisis today (Saturday, 28 February 2026) after the United States and Israel launched big attacks on Iran. In quick response, Iran fired a large number of missiles and drones at Israel and several US military bases in the Gulf region. Explosions have been reported in places like the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Kuwait.
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What Started It All
- Early this morning, Israel said it carried out a “pre-emptive” strike on Iran. They targeted military sites, missile bases, and even areas linked to Iran’s leaders.
- US President Donald Trump then announced that the United States had begun “major combat operations” in Iran. In a video message (posted on Truth Social), he said the attacks were needed to stop Iran’s nuclear programme, destroy its missiles, and prevent it from ever getting nuclear weapons.
- Trump also spoke directly to the people of Iran, urging them to “take over your government” and saying the “hour of your freedom is at hand”. He blamed Iran for years of attacks on the US and its allies.
- Explosions were heard in Tehran (Iran’s capital), Isfahan, Qom, Karaj, and other cities. Smoke rose over parts of Tehran, including near the compound of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the presidential palace. Some reports say strikes hit close to President Masoud Pezeshkian too.
Israel and the US described this as a joint effort after months of planning. They say it aims to remove the “existential threat” from Iran’s nuclear and missile programmes. (There was an earlier round of fighting in June last year, but this seems much bigger.)
Iran’s Strong Response
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) called it a “first large-scale wave” of revenge attacks.
- They fired missiles and drones straight at Israel. Sirens sounded across the country, including in Jerusalem. Israel’s air defences (like Iron Dome) intercepted many, with loud booms heard overhead. Some reports say a second and third barrage came later. At least one person in Israel was lightly injured.
- Iran also targeted US military bases in Gulf countries that host American troops:
- Qatar: Missiles aimed at the big Al Udeid Air Base near Doha (the largest US base in the region). Qatar’s defence systems (Patriot missiles) intercepted them. Explosions and smoke were seen in the sky over Doha.
- UAE: Explosions in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The UAE said its air defences stopped several ballistic missiles. Sadly, one person (an Asian man) died from falling debris. A second wave was also intercepted.
- Bahrain: Missiles hit near the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet headquarters in Manama. Explosions and sirens were reported in the area.
- Kuwait: Air defences activated near Ali Al Salem Air Base.
- Saudi Arabia: Loud explosions heard in Riyadh (the capital). Some link this to nearby US-related sites, though details are unclear.
- Iran’s Foreign Ministry said the “time has come to defend the homeland”. They called the US-Israel strikes a violation of international rules and promised a “decisive” and “crushing” reply.
Other Effects Right Now
- Many countries in the region closed their airspace. Airlines cancelled or diverted flights to avoid danger.
- US embassies in places like Qatar, UAE, and Jordan told staff and Americans there to shelter in place.
- Oil prices could rise sharply because the Gulf is key for world oil supplies, and attacks risk sea routes.
- Internet access in Iran has been cut or slowed down, according to reports.
This comes after long tensions over Iran’s nuclear plans. The US and Israel say Iran is close to building nuclear weapons (Iran denies this and says its programme is for peaceful use). Previous talks failed, and Trump had warned of action if no new deal was made.
The world is watching closely. Leaders from many countries are calling for calm, but there’s fear this could turn into a bigger war involving more countries. No clear end is in sight yet, and more strikes could happen.
This is a developing story – things are changing quickly. Stay safe, and check trusted news for the very latest updates.
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