28-02-2026

US and Israel Launch Strikes on Iran

Date: 28-02-2026
Sources: cbsnews.com: 5 | cnbc.com: 2 | economist.com: 4 | edition.cnn.com: 3 | foxnews.com: 4 | france24.com: 1 | news.sky.com: 2 | npr.org: 1 | nypost.com: 2 | scmp.com: 1 | straitstimes.com: 2 | washingtonpost.com: 1

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Summary

The US and Israel have launched a joint military operation against Iran, with reports of explosions in multiple Iranian cities, including Tehran. The strikes, described as 'preemptive' by Israel, aim to neutralize threats from Iran's nuclear and missile programs. The US has assembled a significant military presence in the region, and Iran has vowed a 'crushing response' to the attacks.

Key Points

  • The US and Israel launched a joint military operation against Iran on February 28, 2026.
  • The strikes targeted Iran's military and intelligence facilities, with reports of explosions in multiple cities.
  • Israel described the operation as a 'preemptive strike' to remove threats to Israel.
  • The US has assembled a significant military presence in the region, including two aircraft carriers and over 50 fighter jets.
  • Iran has vowed a 'crushing response' to the attacks, with its Supreme Leader being relocated to a secure location.

Articles in this Cluster

Israel launches "preemptive strike" on Iran, Israeli military says - CBS News

The Israeli military announced that it had launched a 'preemptive strike' on Iran, citing an expected missile and drone attack from Iran in the immediate future. The scope and location of the attack were not immediately clear, with Iranian media reporting strikes nationwide, including near the offices of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The US military declined to comment on the attack, but the US Embassy in Qatar implemented a shelter-in-place for all personnel. Israel's Defense Minister Yisrael Katz issued a state of emergency across Israel, and sirens sounded across the country. Iraq's Ministry of Transport closed the country's airspace.
Entities: Israel, Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Yisrael Katz, TehranTone: urgentSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Trump administration labels Iran state sponsor of wrongful detention - CBS News

The Trump administration has formally designated Iran as a state sponsor of wrongful detention, escalating pressure on Tehran amid rising military tensions and stalled diplomacy. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the designation, which activates authorities to impose economic sanctions, export controls, and visa restrictions on individuals or entities linked to wrongful detention policies. The move comes as nuclear and security talks between Washington and Tehran ended without agreement on key issues, and as the US authorized non-emergency personnel to depart Israel due to 'safety risks'. The designation could limit travel to Iran for US passport holders and affects the Iranian diaspora in the US.
Entities: Iran, United States, Marco Rubio, Tehran, WashingtonTone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Trump says he's "not happy" with progress in Iran negotiations - CBS News

President Trump expressed dissatisfaction with the progress of negotiations with Iran over its nuclear program, warning that the US is considering military action if a diplomatic solution is not reached. The negotiations, facilitated by Oman, took place in Geneva between US special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, and Iranian negotiators. Despite tensions, both sides showed a greater willingness to reach a negotiated solution. The US has increased its military presence in the region, with Trump stating that he prefers a diplomatic resolution but will not allow Iran to develop a nuclear weapon.
Entities: Donald Trump, Iran, Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner, OmanTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

U.S. clears some diplomatic staff to leave Israel as tension with Iran continues despite talks - CBS News

The U.S. State Department has authorized non-emergency personnel and their family members to leave Israel due to unspecified 'safety risks' amid escalating tensions with Iran. Despite ongoing negotiations in Geneva aimed at reaching a nuclear deal, experts warn that an agreement may be unlikely, potentially leading to a U.S. military attack on Iran. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described the latest round of talks as 'one of the most serious and longest rounds of talks' to date, with some progress made, but significant differences remaining. The U.S. and Iran have been engaged in indirect talks brokered by Oman, with U.S. special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner leading the negotiations. Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance downplayed concerns about the potential consequences of a U.S. strike, saying there's 'no chance' of a prolonged Middle Eastern war.
Entities: United States, Iran, Israel, Geneva, OmanTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

U.S.-Iran deal is "within our reach," Omani mediator says - CBS News

The US and Iran have made substantial progress towards a nuclear deal, according to Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi, who has mediated several rounds of talks between the two countries. Albusaidi stated that Iran has agreed to never have nuclear material that could be used to create a bomb and will grant inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency full access to its nuclear sites. However, President Trump expressed dissatisfaction with the pace of negotiations and considered authorizing strikes on Iran. Technical talks are scheduled for Monday in Vienna, and Albusaidi hopes to meet with US negotiators soon after. The talks have centered on Iran's nuclear program, with Albusaidi stating that priority number one is to resolve this issue, but Iran is open to discussing other topics.
Entities: Badr Albusaidi, Iran, United States, Oman, International Atomic Energy AgencyTone: neutralSentiment: positiveIntent: inform

Here's what Cramer is watching in the week ahead, including U.S.-Iran tensions

CNBC's Jim Cramer discusses the key factors to watch in the upcoming week, including U.S.-Iran tensions and earnings reports from major companies like Berkshire Hathaway, Nvidia, and Target. Cramer expresses hope for a better March for the market, despite geopolitical uncertainties. He highlights concerns around Nvidia's big tech clients' capital expenditure plans and the potential impact of U.S.-Iran tensions on oil prices. Cramer also shares his views on various companies' earnings reports and stock performances, including Berkshire Hathaway, Target, CrowdStrike, and Broadcom.
Entities: Jim Cramer, Nvidia, Iran, Donald Trump, Berkshire HathawayTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Trump says U.S. military has begun major combat operations in Iran

US President Donald Trump has confirmed that the US military has begun major combat operations in Iran. The operation comes after Iran refused to agree to a deal over its nuclear program despite ongoing negotiations. Several ministries in southern Tehran were targeted, and witnesses heard the blast. The Israeli military also launched a daylight attack on Iran's capital, and identified missiles launched from Iran toward Israel. The US had assembled a vast fleet of fighter jets and warships in the region to pressure Iran into a deal. Energy market participants are closely monitoring the escalating geopolitical tensions, with oil prices climbing to six-month highs amid concerns of a possible supply shock.
Entities: Donald Trump, Iran, US, Israel, TehranTone: urgentSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Americans have no idea what Donald Trump wants from Iran

The article discusses the uncertainty surrounding Donald Trump's intentions towards Iran, particularly with regards to a potential conflict. Despite a significant military build-up in the Middle East, Trump's state-of-the-union address barely mentioned Iran and seemed to suggest that Iran could avoid conflict by stating it would never have a nuclear weapon. The article highlights the confusion among Americans about Trump's objectives and the potential consequences of his actions.
Entities: Donald Trump, Iran, Middle East, Iraq, The EconomistTone: analyticalSentiment: neutralIntent: inform

Iran may insist Hizbullah fights on its behalf

The article discusses the potential for Iran to insist that its proxy, Hizbullah in Lebanon, continues to fight on its behalf. It highlights the decline of Hizbullah's influence, citing the diminished impact of speeches by its current leader, Naim Qassem, compared to his predecessor, Hassan Nasrallah. The article suggests that while Iran may push Hizbullah to continue fighting, the cost for Hizbullah and Lebanon could be high.
Entities: Iran, Hizbullah, Lebanon, Naim Qassem, Hassan NasrallahTone: analyticalSentiment: neutralIntent: inform

Iranians’ angry defiance is growing once again

The article discusses the growing defiance among Iranians against their government, despite repression. It highlights the potential consequences of the conflict between Iran and other countries, including the US and Israel. The article also touches on the internal politics of Iran and the potential successors to the current leadership.
Entities: Iran, Israel, America, Hizbullah, LebanonTone: analyticalSentiment: neutralIntent: inform

What are Donald Trump’s strike options in Iran?

The article discusses the military options available to former US President Donald Trump in the event of a conflict with Iran. It highlights the significant military presence built up by the US in the Middle East, with a large naval fleet and troops stationed in Saudi Arabia. The article suggests that this presence gives Trump a range of options if he decides to attack Iran, but notes that Iran has not yet capitulated to US demands over its nuclear program. The piece also touches on the complexities of the situation and the uncertainty surrounding Trump's goals.
Entities: Donald Trump, Iran, Steve Witkoff, Middle East, AmericaTone: analyticalSentiment: neutralIntent: inform

Israel’s strike on Iran was coordinated with the US, Israeli source tells CNN | CNNClose iconClose iconClose icon

Israel carried out a strike on Iran on Saturday morning, February 28, 2026, in an operation that was coordinated with the United States, according to an Israeli source who spoke to CNN. The details of the strike, including whether it was a unilateral Israeli action or if the US participated directly, are not clear at this early stage. The news was reported by CNN's Jeremy Diamond from Tel Aviv.
Entities: Israel, Iran, United States, CNN, Jeremy DiamondTone: neutralSentiment: neutralIntent: inform

Live updates: US, Israel attack Iran in ‘preemptive strike,’ Trump posts video on Truth Social | CNNClose icon

The US and Israel have launched a 'preemptive strike' against Iran, with explosions reported in multiple Iranian cities, including Tehran. US President Donald Trump described the military campaign as 'massive and ongoing,' aimed at preventing Iran from rebuilding its nuclear program. Iran's state media vowed a 'crushing response' to the attacks, while Israel declared a state of emergency in anticipation of Iranian retaliation. The strikes targeted Iran's military and intelligence facilities, with reports of smoke rising from the Iranian intelligence ministry complex in Tehran. Trump encouraged Iranians to seize control of their government, saying 'when we are finished, take over your government.' The operation, dubbed 'Roaring Lion' by Israel, comes ahead of the Jewish holiday of Purim, which has symbolic meaning in Judaism.
Entities: US, Israel, Iran, Donald Trump, TehranTone: urgentSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Smoke over Tehran after Israeli strike | CNNClose iconClose iconClose icon

The article reports on a recent Israeli strike on Iran, with plumes of smoke seen rising over Tehran's skyline. Iranian media reported explosions across the capital amid escalating regional tensions. The strike was described as pre-emptive by Israel. The incident has heightened tensions in the region, with various news sources covering the event and its aftermath.
Entities: Tehran, Israel, Iran, CNN, February 28, 2026Tone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

F-22 Raptor fighters deploy to Israel for first time amid Iran tensions | Fox News

The US has deployed 11 F-22 Raptor stealth fighters to Israel's Ovda Air Base amid escalating tensions with Iran. The move is seen as a deterrent signal and expands presidential options for potential military action against Iran. The F-22's capabilities allow it to operate in heavily defended airspace and suppress enemy air defenses, making it a critical asset in any potential strike scenario. The deployment is part of a broader US military buildup in the region and comes as concerns grow over Iran's nuclear program and missile capabilities. The choice of Israel as the deployment site offers fewer political constraints compared to some Gulf bases.
Entities: F-22 Raptor, Israel, Iran, US Air Force, Ovda Air BaseTone: urgentSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Iran US nuclear talks move to Vienna after 'positive' Geneva round | Fox News

The third round of nuclear talks between the US and Iran concluded in Geneva with 'significant progress' reported, and the next meeting is set for Vienna. Despite the positive developments, Iranian state television stated that Tehran will continue enriching uranium and rejected proposals to transfer it abroad. The negotiations were primarily indirect, with Oman's Foreign Minister relaying messages between the two sides. The US is assembling military assets in the Middle East while pursuing diplomatic efforts.
Entities: Iran, US, Geneva, Vienna, OmanTone: neutralSentiment: neutralIntent: inform

Israel launches preemptive strike against Iran, defense minister says | Fox News

The Israeli Defense Minister, Israel Katz, announced that Israel launched a preemptive strike against Iran early on Saturday, declaring a special and immediate state of emergency across the country. The strike was described as being 'to remove threats' against Israel. This is a developing story with limited information available at the moment.
Entities: Israel, Iran, Israel Katz, Israeli Defense Minister, Nikos DendiasTone: urgentSentiment: neutralIntent: inform

US authorizes non-essential embassy workers to leave Israel amid Iran tensions | Fox News

The US State Department has authorized non-essential personnel working at the US Embassy in Jerusalem to leave Israel amid escalating tensions with Iran. The decision was made as a precautionary measure due to security incidents and without advance notice, the embassy may place further restrictions on where US government employees can travel within Israel. US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee sent an email to embassy workers urging them to depart 'sooner rather than later' and to look for flights out of Ben Gurion Airport to any destination. The embassy reiterated the State Department's advisory for US citizens to reconsider traveling to Israel and the West Bank due to terrorism and civil unrest.
Entities: US State Department, US Embassy in Jerusalem, Israel, Iran, Mike HuckabeeTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Live: Tehran promises to retaliate as Israel and US launch joint attack on Iran - France 24

The article reports on a joint attack launched by Israel and the US against Iran on February 28, 2026. The attack, described as a 'preventive strike' by Israel's defense minister, was coordinated with the US and targeted 'regime and military sites' in Iran. Iran's government has promised to retaliate, with an Iranian official stating that the response will be 'crushing'. The US embassies in Qatar and Bahrain issued shelter-in-place orders for personnel, and the US president, Donald Trump, announced that Washington had begun 'major combat operations' in Iran. The situation is escalating, with Iraq shutting down its airspace and Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, being relocated to a secure location.
Entities: Israel, Iran, United States, Donald Trump, TehranTone: urgentSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Iran and US compromise over nuclear stockpile - but Trump's window for action grows smaller by the day | World News | Sky News

Iran and the US have made progress in indirect talks held in Geneva, with Iran offering to reduce its nuclear stockpile to 'almost nothing' in exchange for the elimination of sanctions. The talks, mediated by Oman, have been described as the 'most intense so far' by Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. While there is still a long way to go before a binding deal is reached, technical talks will be held in Vienna on Monday to discuss the details. The US President Trump is yet to comment on the talks, and hawks in Washington and Israel are urging him to take action against Iran. The threat of war remains high, with a massive US military build-up on standby in the region.
Entities: Iran, US, Geneva, Jared Kushner, Steve WitkoffTone: neutralSentiment: positiveIntent: inform

US opens 'pop-up' consulate in Israeli settlement considered illegal under international law | World News | Sky News

The US has opened a 'pop-up' consulate in Efrat, an Israeli settlement in the West Bank considered illegal under international law. The settlement has a significant population of US citizens, around 4,000 people, who can now access consular services without having to travel to Jerusalem. The move has been welcomed by the settlement's residents and officials, who see it as a game-changer and a sign of the US's commitment to their community. However, others have expressed concerns that the move legitimates the settlement and could be a step towards annexation of the West Bank. The settlement's residents, including US citizens, have varying views on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with some expressing a desire for coexistence and others holding more hardline views.
Entities: US, Israel, Efrat, West Bank, JerusalemTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Trump announces 'major combat operations' in Iran : NPR

The United States and Israel have launched military strikes against Iran, with President Donald Trump announcing 'major combat operations' in a video statement. The operation aims to defend the American people and eliminate imminent threats from the Iranian regime. Explosions were reported in Tehran, and air raid sirens sounded across Israel. Israel's Defense Minister described the operation as a preemptive action to neutralize threats against Israel, and a 48-hour state of emergency was declared nationwide. The strike follows weeks of escalating tensions and a significant U.S. military buildup in the Middle East.
Entities: Donald Trump, Iran, Israel, United States, TehranTone: urgentSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

It's pure madness to wait for Iran to get nukes before we act

The article argues that the US should take action against Iran's nuclear program before it develops nuclear weapons, citing the country's history of belligerence and violence towards the US and its allies. The author, David Harsanyi, claims that Iran's Islamist regime is 'uniquely evil' and will become more aggressive with nuclear capabilities. He suggests that the US should demand that Iran dismantle its nuclear sites, hand over enriched uranium stockpiles, and abide by a new deal with no sunset clauses. The article emphasizes the threat posed by Iran's nuclear ambitions and the need for the US to take a strong stance against it.
Entities: Iran, United States, Donald Trump, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, HezbollahTone: urgentSentiment: negativeIntent: persuade

US, Israel launch attack on Iran after regime refuses to scrap nuclear program: report

The US and Israel launched airstrikes against Iran on Saturday, February 28, 2026, in response to Iran's refusal to dismantle its nuclear program. The attacks, which were carried out by air and sea, targeted military infrastructure to reduce the Iranian threat to military personnel. The strikes were reportedly not a 'small strike' and were part of a larger military buildup in the region, which included the deployment of two US aircraft carriers, a dozen Navy destroyers, and over 50 fighter jets. Iranian officials vowed to retaliate with 'crushing' force, and Israel prepared for potential retaliatory strikes, suspending public activity and declaring a state of emergency. The US and Israel have been engaged in a tense standoff with Iran over its nuclear program, with President Trump warning Tehran that it would face 'really bad things' if it didn't make a deal.
Entities: US, Israel, Iran, President Trump, Ayatollah Ali KhameneiTone: negativeSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Developing | US-Israel strike on Iran begins ‘major combat operations’, Trump says in video | South China Morning Post

The US and Israel launched a strike against Iran on Saturday morning, with Israeli officials describing it as 'pre-emptive' to 'remove threats to Israel'. US President Donald Trump confirmed the US strikes in a video posted to Truth Social, stating that Washington had begun 'major combat operations' to defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime. The strikes were carried out by air and sea, with sirens sounding across Israel to warn the public of a possible Iranian missile attack. Two loud blasts were reported in Tehran, with thick smoke seen over the centre and east of the Iranian capital.
Entities: United States, Israel, Iran, Donald Trump, Truth SocialTone: urgentSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Embassies evacuating staff in the Middle East with Trump ‘not happy’ on Iran | The Straits Times

The United States and other countries are evacuating embassy staff from the Middle East amid rising tensions with Iran. US President Donald Trump expressed dissatisfaction with diplomatic talks aimed at preventing air strikes on Iran, stating that negotiations were not yielding the right answers. The US has assembled a significant military presence in the region, including two aircraft carriers, and has issued travel advisories for its citizens. Other countries, including Britain, China, and Australia, have also advised their citizens to leave the region. The situation has led to rising oil prices and financial market volatility in Israel.
Entities: Donald Trump, Iran, United States, Middle East, JerusalemTone: neutralSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

US has launched ‘major combat operations’ in Iran, says Trump; Tehran vows crushing response | The Straits Times

The US has launched 'major combat operations' in Iran, according to President Donald Trump, following a pre-emptive attack by Israel against Iran. The US military initiated a series of strikes against targets in Iran, with two US officials confirming the operation to Reuters. Iran has vowed a crushing retaliation, with an Iranian official telling Reuters that the country is preparing to respond. The attack follows a 12-day air war in June between Israel and Iran and repeated US-Israeli warnings that they would strike again if Iran continued with its nuclear and ballistic missile programs. Israel's Defence Minister, Israel Katz, said that the country launched a pre-emptive attack against Iran to remove threats to Israel.
Entities: Donald Trump, Iran, Israel, Tehran, United StatesTone: urgentSentiment: negativeIntent: inform

Strikes in Iran: Live updates as U.S. and Israel launch joint operation - The Washington Post

The U.S. and Israel have launched a joint military operation against Iran, with President Donald Trump announcing 'major combat operations in Iran.' The attack, described by Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz as a 'preemptive strike,' aims to neutralize threats to Israel. The operation follows an increased U.S. military presence in the region and diplomatic efforts to curb Iran's nuclear program. Several U.S. embassies have issued safety alerts, advising Americans in the region to shelter in place.
Entities: Donald Trump, Israel Katz, United States, Israel, IranTone: urgentSentiment: negativeIntent: inform