The operation follows weeks of escalating tensions, American military threats, and a significant troop buildup in the Middle East. Major combat operationUS President Donald Trump, in a video posted to his Truth Social platform, announced that American forces have commenced “major combat operations” against Iran. Describing the offensive as “massive and ongoing,” Trump stated the goals are to dismantle Iran’s missile and military infrastructure, prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons, and eliminate “imminent threats” from the Iranian regime. Simultaneously, the Israeli Ministry of Defense confirmed it launched a “preemptive strike” on Iran in coordination with the US, targeting dozens of military sites, including ballistic missile factories and nuclear facilities. This marks the second such confrontation in recent months, following a 12-day conflict in June 2025 where Israel, backed by the US, struck Iranian nuclear and military sites.

Source: Egypt Independent February 28, 2026 13:03 UTC