The US and Israel jointly launch airstrikes on Iran! "Operation Epic Fury" ignites Middle East conflict escalation, oil prices soar, and the Strait of Hormuz risk increases

On February 28, 2026, a major turning point occurred in the Middle East situation. The United States and Israel officially launched a large-scale joint military operation against Iran, targeting Tehran’s nuclear program and missile capabilities, with multiple high-ranking Iranian officials also targeted. Explosions shook cities such as Tehran and Isfahan, regional airspace was urgently closed, and global oil prices surged.

This military action, codenamed “Operation Epic Fury,” is seen as a comprehensive escalation of the long-standing U.S.-Iran confrontation. Iran responded immediately with ballistic missiles and drones, attacking Israel and several U.S. military bases. The Middle East once again stands on the brink of full-scale war.

U.S. and Israel Launch “Operation Epic Fury”: Targeting Nuclear Facilities and Leadership

U.S. President Donald Trump posted a video on Truth Social confirming the launch of a “major military operation” called Operation Epic Fury. He stated that this military strike aims to “eliminate the imminent threat from the Iranian regime,” destroy Iran’s missile and nuclear capabilities, and prevent it from acquiring nuclear weapons.

Trump emphasized in his speech that this action is not just a military strike but also “paving the way for freedom,” even publicly calling on the Iranian people to rise up against their government, saying “Your moment of freedom has arrived.” These remarks are interpreted by some as having regime change implications.

On the Israeli side, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz described the operation as a “preemptive strike,” stating that Iran poses a “existential threat.” Israel has named this operation “Roaring Lion” or “Shield of Judah,” and revealed that it has coordinated with the U.S. for several months. Netanyahu publicly thanked Trump for his “historic leadership.”

Airstrikes Expand: Multiple Cities Including Tehran and Isfahan Bombed

In the early hours of February 28, explosions were heard in Tehran, targeting areas near the Supreme Leader’s residence, the Presidential Palace, and facilities related to the National Security Council. Other attacked cities include:

• Isfahan: Location of Iran’s key nuclear facilities
• Qom
• Karaj
• Kermanshah
• Shiraz

Israeli sources indicate that the operation specifically targeted several high-ranking Iranian officials, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, President Masoud Pezeshkian, Armed Forces Chief of Staff Sayyid Abdolrahim Mousavi, and multiple IRGC commanders. However, the current status of these individuals remains unclear.

Iranian state media acknowledged attacks on some military and security facilities but downplayed the extent of damage and casualties.

Iranian Retaliation: Missile Attacks on Israel and U.S. Bases

Iran swiftly launched retaliatory actions, firing multiple ballistic missiles and drones at Israel and U.S. military installations across the Middle East. Alerts sounded in central and southern Israel, including Tel Aviv and Beersheba, with some debris causing minor injuries and property damage.

Meanwhile, Iran’s missiles also targeted U.S. facilities in Bahrain, Qatar, and the UAE, including:

• Bahrain (U.S. Fifth Fleet Base)
• Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar
• Al Dhafra Air Base in the UAE

The UAE reported at least one civilian death caused by missile debris. Bahrain stated it is investigating the attack on its U.S. base. Iran’s Foreign Ministry characterized the airstrikes as “acts of war” and vowed to carry out “destructive retaliation,” emphasizing that it is now a “time to defend the homeland.”

Nuclear Negotiation Collapse as a Trigger: Fordow and Natanz as Controversy Foci

This military escalation follows the breakdown of nuclear negotiations. The U.S. demanded Iran dismantle key nuclear sites, including Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan, reduce uranium enrichment to minimal levels, and fully accept IAEA oversight.

Iran refused these conditions, insisting that full sanctions relief is a prerequisite. Notably, this conflict is less than a year from June 2025, when a 12-day Iran-U.S. war occurred, during which the U.S. also attacked Iranian nuclear facilities.

Oil Prices Surge, Hormuz Strait Risks Increase

Regional airspace has been fully closed, and Persian Gulf countries are on high alert. The market’s greatest concern is that the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil shipping route, could be disrupted. Oil prices have already risen sharply in early trading.

The U.S. embassy in the Middle East issued “shelter-in-place” instructions, Israel declared a nationwide state of emergency, and the UN Security Council is expected to hold an emergency meeting. European leaders called for restraint and emphasized nuclear safety.

Regional War Risks Rise: Hezbollah and Houthi Movements Under Scrutiny

Analysts warn that the conflict could last for days or even longer. Iran-backed groups, including Lebanon’s Hezbollah and Yemen’s Houthi forces, have signaled readiness to escalate. If the conflict expands, it could affect more countries and potentially shut down key shipping lanes.

The situation remains rapidly evolving. With explosions and alarms continuing, the Middle East faces a potentially prolonged and unpredictable military confrontation. The impact on global energy markets and geopolitical stability could be profound.

This article originally appeared on Lian News ABMedia: U.S. and Israel joint airstrikes on Iran! “Operation Epic Fury” ignites Middle East war escalation, oil prices soar, Hormuz Strait risks intensify.