US & Israel Strikes on Iran Spark Fear and Exodus | 2026 Conflict

A major joint strike by the United States and Israel against Iran is underway, with reports emerging that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was among those targeted. The attacks, launched Saturday, have triggered widespread fear and panic across Iran, prompting residents to flee cities and queue for fuel. The operation, dubbed “OPERATION EPIC FURY” by the Pentagon, comes after weeks of escalating regional tensions and failed negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program. US President Donald Trump has framed the strikes as a means to prevent Iran from threatening American interests and has called on the Iranian people to “take over” their government.

Escalation and Initial Targets

Explosions rocked Tehran and other cities including Tabriz, Sahand, and Isfahan early Saturday morning, shaking the country at the start of the Iranian working week. Iranian state media has not yet confirmed the death of Ayatollah Khamenei, but Israel’s public broadcaster reported he was a key target. Alongside Khamenei, President Masoud Pezeshkian was also reportedly targeted, as were other top regime and military commanders. According to an Iranian source close to the establishment, several senior Revolutionary Guards commanders and political officials were killed, including Gen. Mohammad Pakpour, commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, and Iranian defense minister Aziz Nasirzadeh.

The strikes targeted Iran’s military infrastructure, symbols of government, and intelligence targets, according to an official briefed on the operation. Security forces have blocked roads leading to areas housing key leadership, including the offices of the Supreme Leader. The attacks follow the collapse of negotiations in Geneva on Thursday regarding Iran’s nuclear program, with Omani mediators reporting limited progress.

Human Impact and Internal Reactions

The immediate impact on the Iranian population is one of fear and disruption. Residents described scenes of chaos as they rushed to collect children from school and prepare to exit their homes. Gholamreza, a shopkeeper in Tehran, stated his family was traveling to Yazd, fearing the capital was no longer safe. Others are attempting to secure hard currency, while reports indicate ATMs in Isfahan are experiencing difficulties.

The attacks are unfolding against a backdrop of recent unrest in Iran, following a government crackdown on nationwide protests and just eight months after a 12-day war with Israel. The current situation is exacerbating existing anxieties. “We are scared, we are terrified. My children are shaking, we have nowhere to go, we will die here,” said Minou, a mother of two from Tabriz.

Reactions within Iran are divided. Some, like a resident of Yazd, expressed hope that the attacks would lead to the overthrow of the clerical establishment that has governed since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Still, others voiced concerns about foreign intervention and the potential for further instability. Samira Mohebbi, from Rasht, stated, “I am against this regime… But I don’t want my country to be attacked by foreign forces, I don’t want my Iran to turn into Iraq.”

Regional and Global Implications

This joint US-Israel operation represents a significant escalation in tensions in the Middle East, with the potential for broader regional conflict. The strikes are likely to draw condemnation from Iran’s allies, and could prompt retaliatory actions. Iran’s top security body has warned that attacks are expected to continue and has urged citizens to relocate to safer areas. Schools and universities have been closed indefinitely.

The situation also has implications for global energy markets. Iran is a major oil producer, and disruptions to its production or transit routes could lead to price increases. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for oil tankers, is particularly vulnerable.

The broader geopolitical context is also crucial. The attacks occur amidst ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Gaza Strip, adding another layer of complexity to the international security landscape. The United States’ relationship with its allies in the region, particularly Arab states, will be closely watched.

Historical Context and Nuclear Program

The current crisis is rooted in decades of mistrust and antagonism between Iran and the United States, as well as Israel. Western governments have long suspected Iran of pursuing a nuclear weapons program, a claim Tehran denies. The 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), also known as the Iran nuclear deal, aimed to curb Iran’s nuclear ambitions in exchange for sanctions relief. However, the US withdrew from the JCPOA in 2018 under the Trump administration, reimposing sanctions and escalating tensions. The New York Times provides background on the JCPOA.

The failure of recent negotiations to revive the JCPOA has contributed to the current escalation. Iran has continued to advance its nuclear program, enriching uranium to levels closer to weapons-grade. Israel has repeatedly warned that it will not allow Iran to acquire a nuclear weapon and has hinted at the possibility of military action. Reuters reported on Israel’s stance on Iran’s nuclear program in September 2023.

Confirmed vs. Unclear Information

As of Saturday, February 28, 2026, the following is confirmed: the United States and Israel have launched a major joint strike against Iran. Explosions have been reported in multiple cities, including Tehran, Tabriz, Sahand, and Isfahan. US President Donald Trump has announced the start of “OPERATION EPIC FURY” and called for regime change in Iran.

The following remains unconfirmed: the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. While Israel’s public broadcaster reported he was targeted, there has been no official confirmation from Iranian authorities. The full extent of the damage caused by the strikes is also unclear. Reports of casualties beyond the named commanders are also unconfirmed, relying on an Iranian source close to the establishment.

Next Steps and Potential Scenarios

The immediate next steps will likely involve Iran’s response to the attacks. Tehran could retaliate directly against the United States or Israel, or it could choose to act through proxies in the region, such as Hezbollah in Lebanon or Houthi rebels in Yemen. The United States and Israel are likely to be on high alert for potential attacks.

Diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation are also likely to intensify. The United Nations Security Council could convene an emergency session to discuss the crisis. Regional actors, such as Oman and Qatar, could play a mediating role. However, the prospects for a quick resolution appear dim, given the deep-seated mistrust and animosity between the parties involved. The coming days will be critical in determining whether this escalation spirals into a wider regional conflict. AP News is providing ongoing coverage of the conflict.