Iran Expands Retaliatory Strikes Across Middle East After US Action

Doha , Qatar – February 28, 2026

Iran launched coordinated missile and drone attacks across the Middle East after joint US and Israeli strikes hit targets inside its territory, escalating a crisis that began with questions over why did us attack iran. Explosions were reported in several Gulf states hosting American military bases. Regional governments activated air defenses as projectiles crossed their airspace. The expanding confrontation now threatens to draw multiple countries into direct hostilities.

The retaliation followed large-scale strikes by the United States and Israel on Iranian military and political facilities. Israeli officials said their forces eliminated several senior regime figures during the operation. Iranian state media reported dozens of civilian casualties, including at a girls’ school in Hormozgan province. The competing narratives deepened uncertainty over the scale of losses.

Why Did US Attack Iran as Conflict Widens

The debate over why did us attack iran intensified as the regional fallout became visible. Washington said it acted to neutralize threats from Iranian missile systems and command centers. Israeli leaders described the operation as a necessary preemptive measure. Both governments argued that delaying action would invite greater instability.

President Donald Trump confirmed that major combat operations were under way and urged Iranians to challenge their leadership. Satellite imagery later showed visible damage near compounds linked to Iran’s supreme authority. Tehran did not immediately confirm the full extent of structural damage. The statements signaled that the confrontation extends beyond military targets.

Also Read – Explore our full coverage of US and Israel Strike Iran as Regional Conflict Escalates, including verified updates on military actions, regional reactions, and global diplomatic responses shaping the crisis.

Explosions Reported From Dubai to Doha

In Dubai, authorities reported an explosion at the Fairmont The Palm hotel in the Palm Jumeirah district. Officials said four people sustained injuries after what they described as an incident in a building. The United Arab Emirates defense ministry said it intercepted ballistic missiles and drones launched from Iran. It called the assault a blatant attack on its territory.

In Doha, witnesses reported blasts near Al Udeid Air Base, the largest American military installation in the region. Qatari officials did not confirm direct damage to the base. Regional security sources said air defense systems were activated as projectiles approached. The base plays a central role in US operations across the Middle East.

Bahrain confirmed that a US Navy facility came under missile attack. Footage filmed from a passing car appeared to show a missile streaking across the sky. Authorities heightened security around government and military compounds. The US Navy has not detailed the extent of any impact.

Kuwait reported explosions near its international airport, according to the Kuna news agency. Officials said a drone strike caused minor injuries to several employees and limited damage to a terminal. Civil aviation authorities suspended some flights during inspections. Emergency crews secured the affected areas.

Reuters reported that US air defenses shot down a drone over a base near Erbil in northern Iraq. Jordan said its armed forces intercepted two ballistic missiles that crossed its airspace. Debris fell in several locations without major casualties. Governments across the region urged restraint.

Fresh Blasts in Tehran and Bushehr

Inside Iran, witnesses described new explosions in western Tehran. Journalists from Agence France-Presse reported hearing a series of fresh blasts in the capital. The state-run Islamic Republic News Agency also reported new detonations. The source of the explosions was not immediately clear.

Iran’s Fars news agency reported that two neighborhoods in Bushehr were targeted by missiles. Bushehr hosts Iran’s only nuclear power plant, increasing international concern. Authorities did not confirm damage to the facility itself. The reports added to fears of infrastructure risks.

The Israeli Air Force said it launched additional strikes on missile launch sites and defense systems in central Iran. The military posted on social media that it continued targeting strategic assets. Officials framed the action as part of a sustained campaign. Tehran accused Israel of expanding the conflict deliberately.

Iranian Officials Respond to Leadership Reports

Iranian officials declined to confirm reports about the status of senior leaders targeted in earlier strikes. Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei said he could not verify whether all senior figures were unharmed. He acknowledged that many targets were hit across the country. He claimed more than 150 girls were killed or injured in one strike.

Earlier, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was alive as far as he knew. He added that Iran may have lost one or two commanders. Iranian authorities denied attempts to destabilize neighboring countries. They described their regional strikes as acts of self-defense against US bases.

Regional and International Implications

The widening exchange has raised concerns about energy infrastructure and maritime security in the Gulf. Oil markets reacted with volatility as traders assessed supply risks. Airlines rerouted flights away from contested airspace. Diplomats intensified contacts to prevent further escalation.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said UK aircraft were operating in the region as part of coordinated defensive measures. He said Britain aimed to protect its personnel and allies. Other European governments urged restraint from all sides. The United Nations called for immediate de-escalation.

Security analysts say the confrontation now spans multiple theaters. They warn that miscalculation could trigger direct clashes between regional powers. Military assets from several countries remain on high alert. Governments continue assessing intelligence and preparing contingency plans.

The coming days will determine whether diplomatic channels can slow the momentum of escalation. Both Iran and Israel have signaled readiness for further action. The United States has not announced a timeline for concluding operations. Regional leaders now face urgent choices that could shape stability across the Middle East.

Topic cover – US Israel Iran Conflict, US Iran Tension, MiddleEastnews