Israeli forces conducted a preemptive military strike against targets in Tehran early Saturday, February 28, 2026, escalating regional tensions following stalled nuclear negotiations. The Israeli Defense Ministry stated the operation aimed to 'remove imminent threats to national security,' with explosions reported near Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's offices and multiple strategic locations across the Iranian capital.
Iran immediately closed its airspace as sirens sounded across Israel, prompting civilians to prepare for potential retaliation. The Israeli Airports Authority suspended all civilian flights as regional tensions reached their highest level since the 2025 U.S.-Iran nuclear talks collapsed.
The strike occurred two days after U.S. and Iranian diplomats concluded unsuccessful negotiations in Geneva. Analysts note the coordinated timing with recent U.S. military deployments to the Middle East has created a volatile security environment, with global oil prices surging 8% in pre-market trading.
Regional governments have urged restraint, while the United Nations Security Council prepares for an emergency session. The developments underscore growing instability in Middle Eastern geopolitics as global powers navigate complex security challenges in 2026.
