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Updated 01 March 2026 - Military operations expand across Middle East following joint US-Israeli strikes on Iranian targets.
Joint strikes target Iranian cities
American and Israeli forces conducted a series of strikes across Iran on Sunday, marking a significant escalation in regional tensions. US President Donald Trump described the operation as "major combat operations" and called on Iranian citizens to "rise up" against their government. He later confirmed the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, a claim verified by Iranian state television.
Iran retaliates with regional strikes
In response, Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced it had launched attacks on US military bases and assets across the Middle East under "Operation Truthful Promise 4." The strikes follow weeks of heightened rhetoric and stalled negotiations over Iran's nuclear program.
International reactions split
Global leaders reacted swiftly to the escalation, with many condemning the violence and urging restraint.
United Nations
UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned that the strikes "undermine international peace and security" and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities. At an emergency UN Security Council meeting, US Ambassador Mike Waltz defended the strikes as "strategic" to dismantle Iran's missile capabilities and prevent nuclear proliferation. Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon echoed the sentiment, stating the actions were necessary to counter an "existential threat."
Key allies and adversaries
Russia, a long-time Iranian ally, condemned the strikes as "aggression" that risked further regional instability. Saudi Arabia denounced Iran's retaliatory attacks on Gulf nations, including Bahrain and the UAE, while affirming support for affected allies.
A joint statement from French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer urged Iran to pursue a "negotiated solution," emphasizing the need to end nuclear and missile programs. The UK confirmed its aircraft were involved in "defensive operations" in the region.
Regional mediators
Oman's Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi, who had mediated recent US-Iran nuclear talks, expressed dismay, warning the strikes undermined diplomatic efforts. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused the US of prioritizing Israeli interests over global stability, calling the strikes "illegal and illegitimate."
Leaders address Iranian public
Both Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu directly addressed the Iranian people in separate statements. Trump urged citizens to "take over your government" once operations concluded, while Netanyahu called for an end to "tyranny" and a "free Iran."
"Our joint action will create the conditions for the courageous Iranian people to take their destiny into their own hands."
Benjamin Netanyahu, Israeli Prime Minister
Humanitarian concerns grow
UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk warned of "grave consequences for civilians" and reminded all parties of their obligations under international law. The EU's top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, reiterated the bloc's commitment to diplomatic solutions while condemning the escalation.
Global calls for de-escalation
Brazil and Australia offered contrasting responses, with Brazil condemning the strikes and Australia supporting the US effort to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Italy and the EU pledged to consult allies to ease tensions, while Germany confirmed it had been briefed on the strikes in advance.
