Joint U.S. And Israeli strikes targeting Iran commenced on February 28, 2026, resulting in the confirmed death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, according to U.S. President Donald Trump. The strikes, carried out under Israel’s “Roaring Lion” and the U.S.’s “Epic Fury” operations, targeted over 500 locations including missile launchers, air defense systems, and nuclear-related sites.
The attacks prompted immediate retaliatory missile and drone launches from Iran toward Israel and U.S. Military installations in Qatar, Kuwait, the UAE, Bahrain, and Iraq. Israeli defense systems reportedly neutralized the majority of these attacks, limiting damage to minor injuries and temporary airspace disruptions.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the use of force by both the U.S. And Israel, as well as Iran’s subsequent retaliation, stating that these actions “undermine international peace and security.” He called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and de-escalation. The UN Security Council convened an emergency meeting Saturday afternoon to address the situation, chaired by Britain.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed “great concern” over the developments, emphasizing the importance of nuclear safety and preventing further escalation. The EU’s chief diplomat, Kaja Kallas, described the situation as “perilous” and affirmed the protection of civilians as a priority, while also noting Iran’s history of violence and support for terrorist groups.
France, Germany, and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement emphasizing their long-standing calls for Iran to end its nuclear program and cease destabilizing actions. The statement confirmed that none of the three countries participated directly in the strikes but that they remained in close contact with the U.S. And Israel. The E3 nations condemned Iran’s retaliatory attacks and urged restraint.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez rejected the unilateral military action, calling it an escalation that contributes to a more uncertain international order. He demanded immediate de-escalation and a return to dialogue.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney voiced support for the U.S. Action, stating it was intended to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon and threatening international peace. He reiterated Canada’s position that Iran is a principal source of instability in the Middle East.
Russia’s Foreign Ministry characterized the strikes as a “pre-planned and unprovoked act” of aggression and demanded a return to diplomatic talks, accusing the U.S. And Israel of falsely claiming threats from Iran’s nuclear program to pursue regime change.
China’s Foreign Ministry expressed “high concern” and called for an immediate stop to military actions, urging respect for Iran’s sovereignty and a resumption of dialogue to maintain peace and stability in the Middle East.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy appeared to endorse the U.S. Strikes, citing Iran’s close ties with Russia and the provision of Shahed drones used in attacks on Ukrainian cities.
Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi, who has been involved in mediating between the U.S. And Iran, expressed dismay over the coordinated attacks, stating that the U.S. Interests were not served by the action and urging Washington not to “get sucked in further.” Albusaidi revealed that Iran had previously agreed to zero stockpiling of nuclear enrichment during recent talks.
Lebanon’s Prime Minister Nawaf Salam warned of “dangerous developments” and stated Lebanon would not allow itself to be drawn into any adventures that threaten its security.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated his country stands with the Iranian people in their struggle against oppression and supports the U.S. Efforts to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.
Demonstrations have erupted in multiple cities, including London and Berlin, with both pro-Palestinian protests and celebrations following news of Khamenei’s death. Pro-Palestinian activists are planning a march in London, while jubilant celebrations, including music and the waving of Iranian flags, were reported in North London.
