The United States and Israel launched a joint attack on Iran on February 28, 2026, confirming the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. The operation, dubbed 'Epic Fury,' aimed to degrade Iran's nuclear and military capabilities, prompting retaliatory missile strikes on Israel and US bases in the region. The conflict has led to airspace closures and fears of escalation in the Middle East.
The surprise attack by the United States and Israel on Iran began in the early hours of February 28, 2026, with precision bombings on Tehran and other strategic sites. President Donald Trump confirmed in Truth Social the death of 86-year-old Ali Khamenei, who had led the country since 1989. 'Khamenei, one of the most evil people in history, is dead,' Trump wrote, adding that the operation destroyed much of Iran's military infrastructure and urged the Iranian people to take control of their government.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported the elimination of top Iranian commanders, including Ali Shamkhani and Mohammad Pakpour from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that 'all indications show that this tyrant is no longer with us' and urged Iranians to rise against the regime, calling it a 'once-in-a-generation opportunity'.
Iran retaliated by launching ballistic missiles at Tel Aviv, causing one death and 22 injuries according to Magen David Adom, and strikes on US bases in Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Kuwait. Iran's Red Crescent reported 201 dead and 747 injured on its soil. Iranian state television later confirmed Khamenei's death, broadcasting mourning images.
The conflict shut down airspace over Israel, Iran, Qatar, Syria, Iraq, Kuwait, Bahrain, and the UAE, stranding thousands of passengers. Markets reacted with a surge in oil prices, potentially reaching 100 dollars per barrel. Russia condemned the attack as 'premeditated armed aggression,' while China called for de-escalation. In Argentina, the government hailed the action, recalling the 1994 AMIA bombing attributed to the Iranian regime, and Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno expressed hope for relief to the victims. The UN called an emergency meeting, but António Guterres regretted the loss of prior diplomatic opportunities in Vienna and Geneva.
