United States (US) and Israel launched coordinated strikes on Iran early on Saturday, February 28, with explosions reported in Tehran, sharply escalating tensions across West Asia.
In a statement, US President Donald Trump said Washington had begun “major combat operations” as part of a planned multi-day campaign.
Iran retaliated by launching missile attacks towards Israel and targeting US military bases in Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), raising fears of a broader regional conflict. Iran, Iraq and Israel shut their airspaces, while several international airlines suspended or rerouted flights across the Middle East, disrupting travel and heightening global security concerns.
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Trump spoke with Netanyahu: White House confirms
10:22 pm IST: White House has confirmed that US President Donald Trump spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the phone.
“President Trump monitored developments overnight from Mar-a-Lago and will continue to do so alongside his national security team. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called all members of the ‘Gang of Eight’ to provide congressional notification, reaching and briefing seven of the eight members,” White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said.
Iran’s elementary school death toll reaches 85
10:00 pm IST: According to the latest Al Jazeera updates, the death toll in Iran’s elementary school attack in Madina has risen to 85.
Meanwhile, Lebanon’s Hezbollah has expressed solidarity with Iran and condemned the US-Israel attack calling it a “continuation of the arrogant and domineering approach”
Building in Dubai hit, 4 injured, Netanyahu speaks to Trump
9:52pm IST: The office of Israel’s prime minister has published a picture showing Benjamin Netanyahu holding a phone call, presumably having a conversation with US President Donald Trump. No confirmed details as of yet.
Three new explosions were heard in Doha. The Qatari government has urged citizens to remain indoors.
A building in Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah area has been hit, resulting in four injuries. “Emergency response teams were deployed immediately and the site has been secured. Dubai Civil Defence has confirmed that the resulting fire is now under control,” the Dubai Media Office said in a statement.
Drone attacks Kuwait International Airport, flames witnessed in Dubai
9:13 pm IST: A drone targeted Kuwait International Airport, according to Kuwait’s General Authority of Civil Aviation, adding minor injuries to several employees and “limited material damage” to the passenger terminal.
Loud explosions continue to rock Dubai with smoke and flames visible in the Palm Island area, Reuters reported.
UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, warning that failure to de-escalate could trigger “a wider regional conflict with grave consequences for civilians and regional stability.”
Iranian missiles directly hit two locations in Central Israel with no casualties reported. Emergency services deployed.
Supreme Leader still alive: Iran’s Foreign Minister
8:37 pm IST: As reports of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s death are all over the internet, Foreign Minister Araghchi, in an interview with NBC News, said that the Supreme Leader is alive “as far as I know.”
Several explosions were heard in Shiraz, the southwestern part of Iran.
China has expressed deep concerns over the developments in the region and urged all three countries for an immediate ceasefire.
I want a safe nation, freedom to all: says Trump as death toll crosses 70
8:30 pm IST: The death toll in Minab and Jask, both provinces in southern Iran, has crossed 70, with more than 50 killed in the bombing in school, Fars news agency reported.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed the military has lost two leaders, but remained defiant that they will not hesitate to strike American territory
Although the White House stated there would be no Trump interaction with the media, the US President gave a brief remark to the Washington Post, saying, “I want a safe nation, and that’s what we’re going to have. All I want is freedom for the people.”
Concerning, in touch with our citizens: MEA
8:13 pm IST: The Government of India released a statement expressing deep concern over the escalating tensions in the Middle East and the safety of Indians working there. “Remain vigilant and follow local security guidance.”
Trump will not address media: White House
7:56 pm IST: United States President Donald Trump will not address the media, the White House clarified.
Germany, France and the United Kingdom released a joint statement strongly condemning the Iranian attacks on countries in the region in response to US and Israeli attacks.
“We reiterate our commitment to regional stability and to the protection of civilian life,” French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said in a joint statement, adding that they wanted a resumption of negotiations.
Missiles seen in Doha, top IRGC Commander reported killed
7:54pm IST: A new round of missile interceptions could be seen in the Qatari capital, Doha. At least five blasts were heard, Al Jazeera reported. A radar system in northern Qatar was targeted.
IRGC’s top officials, Commander Mohammad Pakpour is reportedly killed in strikes by Israel and the US on Saturday, according to Israeli broadcaster N12. Tehran has so far not released any official statement on this.
Pakpour, considered one of the most powerful figures in Iran, had led the IRGC for 260 days. He was promoted to the rank of major general by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in 2025 after the elimination of his predecessor, Hussein Salami, and was tasked with strengthening the force’s capabilities and internal cohesion.
Strike on little children will not go unanswered: Iran
7:26 pm IST: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said the attack on a girls’ elementary school in Minab, a city in the Hormozgan province of southern Iran, will “not go unanswered.” According to IRNA news outlet, the death toll has reached 53.
Meanwhile, attacks on Israel as well as on US bases continue, Fars news agency reported.
Netanyahu’s first statement, Dubai airport closed
6:56 pm IST: Loud explosions were heard in parts of Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Riyadh, Reuters reported. One witness said she heard five blasts in rapid succession.
Dubai airport has closed all its operations.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released his first official statement since morning, claiming Israel is not against the people of Iran but the Ayatollah’s reign. “We have a common enemy, the murderous regime of the Ayatollahs that has taken over you through the oppressive forces of the Revolutionary Guards and the Basij. They are the ones who have degraded your wonderful country, brought it to the lowest point, and they are the ones who slaughtered you en masse.”
He also expressed his deepest gratitude to the President of the United States, Donald Trump, calling him Israel’s “greatest friends in the White House of all time, but a determined leader of the free world.”
“He looks to future generations, decides what is good for America, and then acts with responsibility and courage. Together, we bring great light to all who are rooted in the aspiration for human freedom,” his statement read.
Not get sucked in further: Oman appeals to US
6:41 pm IST: Oman has called the United States not to escalate the ongoing tensions. Its Foreign Minister Badr Al Busaidi expressed regret over the US-Israeli attack on Iran. “I am upset, you have once again undermined active and serious negotiations,” Al Busaidi said in a post on X. He called on the United States “not to be drawn further” into this war.
Death toll in Iran school strike rises to 51: Media
6:05 pm: Iranian media have reported that the death toll from the attack on a girls’ primary school in Minab in southern Iran has risen to 51.
According to the latest reports, dozens of students were also injured in the strike, though there was no independent verification and no immediate confirmation from Israeli authorities
Two students killed in Tehran school strike: Iranian media
5: 56 pm IST: Two students were killed in a strike on a school in the Narmak area in eastern Tehran, according to Iran’s Mehr News Agency.
Four killed after missile hits building in Syria
5:54 pm IST: Four people were killed and several others injured after an Iranian missile struck a building in the industrial area of Sweida city, Syria, according to the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA).
Iran launches ‘dozens of drones’ towards Israel
5:50 pm IST: Iran’s army said it had launched a wave of attack drones towards Israel, according to the Tasnim news agency.
The military described it as the first large-scale drone offensive carried out directly from Iran against Israeli targets. There was no immediate confirmation from Israeli authorities.
Hyderabad resident in Bahrain reports blasts
5: 49 pm IST: A Hyderabad-based resident in Bahrain told Siasat.com that repeated explosion sounds had been heard since morning, while people were seen rushing outdoors amid heightened security and fear.
The resident said homes were shaking due to the impact of the blasts, adding that the situation remains tense as authorities continue to monitor developments.
BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi closed as precaution
5:37 pm: The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi has been closed for the rest of the day as a precaution following the ongoing regional escalation.
In a statement, the management said the decision was taken in line with national security advisories, adding that the safety and wellbeing of visitors remain the highest priority. It said further updates would be shared as required.
Death toll after Israeli attack on school in Iran rises to 40
5:32 pm: Iranian state and semi-official media have reported that 40 girls were killed in an Israeli strike on a primary school in Minab County in southern Iran.
According to the Fars news agency, 48 students were also injured. There was no immediate confirmation from Israeli authorities, and independent verification was not available.
India issues advisory for nationals in Oman
4:50 pm IST: India has advised its citizens in Oman to avoid unnecessary travel, remain vigilant and follow safety guidelines issued by Omani authorities.
The Embassy of India in Muscat said it is functioning normally and urged nationals to stay alert and contact the mission in case of emergencies.
Saudia suspends some flights due to regional situation
4:34 pm IST: Saudi national carrier Saudia said certain flights have been suspended or cancelled due to the evolving situation and airspace closures in the region.
The airline advised passengers to check their flight status before travelling, adding that updates will be communicated through registered contact details.
IRGC claims strikes on US, Israeli targets in region
4:28 pm IST: Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it had struck Israeli and US military targets across the Middle East with what it described as powerful missile attacks.
In a statement, the IRGC said the operation would continue until its objectives were achieved, adding that all American assets in the region were considered legitimate targets. There was no immediate confirmation from US or Israeli authorities.
India issues advisory for nationals in Saudi Arabia
4:24 pm IST: India has advised its citizens in Saudi Arabia to remain vigilant and strictly follow safety guidelines issued by local authorities amid the evolving regional situation.
In an advisory, the Embassy of India in Riyadh said it continues to function normally and will issue updates as required. The mission also shared emergency helpline numbers and urged nationals to stay alert and remain in contact if assistance is needed.
Explosions heard in Tel Aviv, sirens activated
4:21 pm IST: Explosions have been heard in Tel Aviv, according to an Al Jazeera correspondent, as the Israeli Home Front Command announced that sirens were activated in the greater Tel Aviv area.
Saudi Arabia condemns attacks on Gulf countries
4:15 pm IST: Saudi Arabia has condemned in the strongest terms the Iranian attacks on the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Jordan and Kuwait.
In a statement, Riyadh warned of serious consequences over continued violations of state sovereignty and international law, and called for restraint to prevent further escalation in the region.
Owaisi criticises PM Modi’s Israel visit amid conflict
4:10 pm IST: AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi has criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Israel, calling it untimely amid the escalating Iran–Israel tensions.
In a statement, Owaisi said India had traditionally maintained a balanced and neutral approach in West Asia and questioned the decision to alter that stance at a sensitive moment.
He also highlighted the presence of millions of Indians in Gulf countries and raised concerns about their safety during the crisis.
Owaisi further alleged that the visit was used by Israel to strengthen its strategic narrative and said the government should have assessed potential risks, including the safety of Indian citizens and media personnel in the region.
Iran vows response after US-Israel strikes
4:03 pm IST: Iran’s Foreign Ministry said the country “will not hesitate” to respond following the joint US-Israeli strikes.
In a statement posted on social media platform X, the ministry said it was time to defend the country and confront what it described as military aggression.
Iranian media reports school hit in strike
4 pm IST: Iran’s state-run IRNA news agency reported that an Israeli strike hit an elementary school for girls in Minab, in Hormozgan province in southern Iran.
According to the report, five students were killed. There was no immediate confirmation from Israeli authorities, and further details were not available.
India advises citizens in UAE to stay alert
3: 59 pm IST: The Embassy of India in the UAE has advised nationals to avoid unnecessary travel, remain vigilant and follow instructions issued by local authorities amid the evolving security situation.
The embassy and the Consulate General in Dubai said their operations remain normal and shared emergency contact details, urging Indian citizens to stay in touch and seek assistance if required.
Airlines ground flights across Middle East
3:53 pm IST: Several international airlines have suspended or cancelled flights across the Middle East following the latest escalation, according to Reuters.
Air Arabia has cancelled services to Iran, Iraq and other parts of the region, while Air France, Lufthansa and Turkish Airlines have halted flights to several destinations including Tel Aviv and Beirut.
Air India and IndiGo have also suspended operations to parts of the Middle East, and Qatar Airways has temporarily stopped flights due to airspace restrictions. Other carriers, including Norwegian Air, Oman Air, Virgin Atlantic and Wizz Air, have either suspended or rerouted services as aviation authorities continue to monitor the situation.
Qatar says missile attack caused no casualties
3:45 pm IST: Qatar’s Interior Ministry said the attempted missile attack on the country did not result in any human losses or material damage.
The ministry urged citizens and residents to avoid suspicious objects and report them to the authorities, as security agencies continue monitoring the situation.
Sirens sound again in Kuwait
3:40 pm IST: Sirens have been activated again in parts of Kuwait, according to Al Jazeera’s correspondent.
One killed in Abu Dhabi after missile debris falls
3:35 pm IST: One person has been killed after missile fragments fell on a residential area in Abu Dhabi, according to the Emirates News Agency (WAM).
Authorities said the incident occurred amid the ongoing regional escalation. Further details on the victim and the extent of damage were not immediately available.
Building hit in northern Israel, one injured
3:29 pm IST: A nine-storey residential building in northern Israel was hit amid the ongoing escalation, according to Israeli media reports.
Channel 12 said one man sustained minor injuries after being struck by shrapnel from interceptor missiles. The impact caused significant damage to an apartment in the building.
Bahrain condemns attacks as violation of sovereignty
3:23 pm IST: Bahrain has confirmed that several sites and facilities were targeted in what it described as a blatant violation of the kingdom’s sovereignty and security.
According to Qatar’s news agency, authorities called the strikes “treacherous attacks” that pose a direct threat to the safety of citizens and residents, and said the country would take necessary measures to safeguard national security.
UAE Interior Ministry says security measures heightened
3:20 pm IST: The UAE’s Ministry of Interior said it is closely monitoring regional developments and has taken all necessary precautionary measures to ensure public safety.
In a statement, the ministry said it remains at the highest level of readiness in coordination with relevant authorities. It urged residents to rely on official sources for information and avoid spreading rumours or unverified reports.
Explosions reported in Riyadh
3:17 pm IST: Explosions have been reported in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, according to AFP.
Iranian media reports missile attacks on US bases in Gulf
3:14 pm IST: Four major US military bases in Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates are under heavy missile attack, Iran’s Fars News Agency reported.
According to the report, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard launched the strikes as part of its response to the latest escalation. There was no immediate confirmation from US or Gulf authorities.
Houthis vow to resume attacks in Red Sea
3:13 pm IST: Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have vowed to resume missile and drone attacks on Red Sea shipping routes and Israel in support of Iran, according to two senior Houthi officials, Associated Press reported.
The officials said the first attack could take place as early as “tonight”. The group had earlier halted such operations under separate understandings that paused US strikes and reduced regional hostilities.
New explosions heard in Bahrain’s capital
3:09 pm IST: Fresh explosions have been heard in Manama, the capital of Bahrain, AFP reported.
Qatar says attacks repelled, missiles intercepted
3:06 pm IST: Qatar’s Ministry of Defence said it had successfully repelled a number of attacks targeting the country’s territory, adding that all missiles were intercepted before reaching their intended targets.
In a statement, the ministry said the security situation remains stable and under full control. It added that the country has the necessary capabilities and resources to safeguard national security and counter any external threats.
Gulf countries close airspace
2:58 pm IST: Qatar, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), have closed or restricted their airspace as security concerns rise following the latest regional escalation.
Internet almost completely cut off in Iran: NetBlocks
2:52 pm IST: Internet access in Iran has been almost completely disrupted, according to the internet monitoring group NetBlocks.
Explosions reported in Kuwait, sirens activated
2:48 pm IST: Explosions have been heard in Kuwait, with sirens activated across parts of the country, according to Al Jazeera Arabic.
Loud explosion reported in Abu Dhabi
2:47 pm IST: A loud explosion has been reported in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, according to the Reuters. There was no immediate confirmation about the cause of the blast.
Bahrain says US Navy’s 5th Fleet headquarters targeted
2:46 pm IST: Bahrain has confirmed that the headquarters of the US Navy’s 5th Fleet in the country was targeted in a missile attack amid escalating regional tensions.
There were no immediate reports of casualties or damage. Authorities said security forces were responding, while further details were awaited
All US, Israel assets in region ‘legitimate targets’, says Iranian official
2:40 pm IST: A senior Iranian official has warned that all American and Israeli assets and interests in the Middle East are now considered legitimate targets following the latest escalation.
Speaking to Al Jazeera, the official said Iran’s response would be public and without limits, adding that there were “no red lines” after what he described as aggression by the United States and Israel. He urged Israel to prepare for retaliation and said Tehran’s response would be complex and could involve scenarios not previously considered.
The official added that the conflict could have wide and long-term repercussions, stressing that calls for Iran to show restraint or surrender were unacceptable.
Qatar intercepts Iranian missile
Qatar’s Defence Ministry said an Iranian missile was intercepted by the Patriot air defence system amid rising regional tensions.
The ministry said the situation was under control and that no casualties or damage had been reported. Officials urged residents to remain calm and follow instructions from authorities.
Sirens also sounded in Jordan
Several hospitals in Israel launched their emergency protocols, including moving patients and surgeries to underground facilities.
India issues advisory for nationals in Qatar
India has advised its citizens in Qatar to exercise caution and follow official updates amid the evolving regional situation.
In an advisory, the Embassy of India in Doha asked nationals to stay alert, monitor news and follow instructions issued by the mission and local authorities. The embassy said it continues to function as usual and shared its 24-hour helpline for assistance.
IndiGo on alert over Iran airspace
Indian airline IndiGo said it is closely monitoring developments related to Iran and its airspace amid escalating regional tensions.
In a travel advisory, the carrier said the safety of passengers and crew remains its top priority and that it is prepared to make operational adjustments if required. Customers have been advised to check their flight status before departure, with updates to be communicated promptly if any disruptions occur.
Qatar says security situation remains stable
Qatar’s Ministry of Interior said the country’s security situation remains stable and secure despite rising regional tensions.
In a statement, the ministry said there were no indications at present that warrant concern regarding internal security and urged residents to rely on official sources for updates.
Netanyahu says strikes aimed at removing ‘existential threat’
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the joint operation with the United States was intended to remove what he described as an existential threat posed by Iran, Associated Press reported.
In a statement, he said the attacks targeted facilities linked to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard and the Basij force, along with ballistic missile sites. Netanyahu added that the objective was to end the security threat from the Iranian leadership.
UK advises citizens in Qatar to shelter in place
The British embassy in Doha has advised UK nationals in Qatar to remain indoors following the morning’s strikes and heightened regional tensions.
US launches strikes on Iran from air and sea
The United States is carrying out its military operation against Iran through both air and naval forces, according to US officials quoted by NBC News.
A large number of fighter jets are involved in the strikes, while Tomahawk missiles are being launched from US Navy ships. The operation is targeting Iranian military and security sites, officials said.
Iran’s Supreme Leader moved to safe location: Report
Iran’s Supreme Leader was not in Tehran at the time of the strikes and has been moved to a secure location, according to a Reuters report citing a source and carried by Al Jazeera.
India issues advisory for nationals in Iran
India has advised its citizens in Iran to exercise utmost caution, avoid unnecessary movements and remain indoors as far as possible amid the developing situation following the latest military escalation.
In a statement on X, the Embassy of India in Tehran urged nationals to closely monitor news updates, maintain situational awareness and await further guidance. The mission also reiterated its emergency contact numbers and asked Indians to remain in touch in case of any urgent assistance.
Trump urges Iranians to ‘take over government’ after strikes
US President Donald Trump on Saturday confirmed Washington’s involvement in the attack on Iran and urged Iranians to “take over” their government following the strikes on Tehran.
Calling the Iranian leadership a “vicious group of hard, terrible people”, Trump said the objective of the military action was to protect the American people by eliminating threats from the country.
In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, he said the US had begun major combat operations in Iran, aimed at countering what he described as imminent security risks posed by Tehran.
Trump also alleged that Iran had continued to advance its nuclear programme and was working to develop long-range missiles capable of reaching the US, according to media reports.
In a separate video message, Trump acknowledged the possibility of casualties, saying American forces could face losses during the operation. He said such outcomes were common in war. The video appeared to be recorded at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Florida, where he was seen wearing a white “USA” baseball cap, a navy suit and a white shirt without a tie, with a dark blue curtain visible in the background.
US Embassy in Qatar advises shelter-in-place
The US Embassy in Doha has asked American citizens in Qatar to remain indoors and follow a shelter-in-place advisory until further notice amid rising regional tensions.
It urged citizens to stay in secure locations, avoid demonstrations, monitor local media, keep phones charged and maintain communication with family. It also advised enrolment in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for security updates.
