February 28, 2026 | The Press of Asia | Breaking NewsThe Middle East was pushed to the brink of a wider conflict early Friday after the United States and Israel jointly launched large-scale military strikes against Iran, triggering explosions across Tehran and several strategic cities.Thick plumes of smoke were seen rising from multiple locations in the Iranian capital, while air raid sirens and emergency measures were reported across the region.US Confirms ‘Major Combat Operations’In a recorded video address, Donald Trump confirmed the strikes, describing them as part of a “massive and ongoing military operation.”“We have initiated major combat operations. Iran’s missile and nuclear programs will be completely destroyed,” Trump said, warning Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to surrender or face severe consequences.The US administration characterized the action as a pre-emptive strike aimed at neutralizing what it called “imminent threats.”Targets Across IranAccording to multiple regional sources, the strikes hit:Areas near Iran’s Presidential complex in TehranLocations close to the office of Ayatollah Ali KhameneiNational Security Council facilitiesMilitary and infrastructure targets in Isfahan, Karaj, Qom, and TabrizIranian authorities temporarily shut down national airspace, while internet and communication services were disrupted in several areas.Israel Calls It a ‘Pre-Emptive Attack’Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz said the operation was carried out under multiple code names, including Operation Roaring Lion, Shield of Judah, and Epic Fury.Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu justified the strikes by citing long-standing threats from Tehran.“Iran’s regime has openly called for Israel’s destruction for decades. We will eliminate this existential threat,” Netanyahu said in a statement.Iran Retaliates with Missiles and DronesIran responded within hours. The IRGC launched missiles and armed drones toward Israel, prompting air-raid sirens and the declaration of a national emergency in several Israeli regions.Iranian officials vowed a “crushing response,” warning that US military bases and Israeli targets across the region could be attacked.In Tehran, panic spread as residents rushed to fuel stations and many attempted to leave the capital.Background: Nuclear Talks Collapse, Tensions PeakThe strikes come days after the collapse of US–Iran nuclear negotiations in Switzerland. Tensions had been escalating for months over:Iran’s nuclear enrichment programMissile developmentSupport for regional groups such as Hezbollah and the HouthisWhile limited strikes occurred in mid-2025, Iran had reportedly rebuilt much of its military infrastructure since then.Risk of Regional War GrowsAnalysts warn that the conflict could quickly expand beyond Iran and Israel, drawing in Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and the wider Gulf region.A broader war could:Disrupt global oil suppliesCause a sharp spike in energy pricesImpact countries heavily dependent on Gulf oil, including India, which imports nearly 80% of its crude oil from the regionIndia Monitoring SituationIndia has not issued an official statement so far. However, sources say the Ministry of External Affairs is closely monitoring developments. An advisory may be issued for nearly 9 million Indian nationals living and working in the Gulf region if tensions worsen.Situation DevelopingThe situation remains fluid, with military activity continuing and diplomatic channels under strain. The coming hours are expected to be critical in determining whether the conflict can be contained or escalates into a broader regional war.Stay with The Press of Asia for verified updates and in-depth coverage.