For decades, Israel warned of the risks of a nuclear-capable Iran. On February 28, 2026, warnings turned into action. Israel and the United States launched a coordinated military offensive—now recognized as one of the most significant campaigns in Israel’s history. Entering its fourth week, the operation has already reshaped Middle East geopolitics and caused thousands of casualties.
From Containment to Full-Scale Strikes
After months of intelligence monitoring following the June 2025 strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, Israeli planners concluded that Iran was approaching a nuclear capability. The January 2026 suppression of a popular uprising presented a rare window of opportunity. Within days, Israel and U.S. forces coordinated a complex offensive, codenamed Operation Epic Fury, targeting missile sites, command centers, energy infrastructure, and leadership compounds.
The campaign’s most consequential strike was the Tehran leadership compound, which killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei on March 1. His death sent shockwaves through Iran and the international community.
Expanding the Offensive
The strikes quickly broadened, hitting oil depots, gas fields, and nuclear sites, including the Natanz enrichment complex. Independent monitoring reports 2,300 strikes across 29 provinces, crippling military and energy infrastructure. Iran responded with ballistic missiles targeting Israel, causing civilian casualties despite extensive missile defenses.
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