Tensions in the Middle East escalated dramatically on February 28, 2026, as the United States and Israel launched a joint military attack on Iran, targeting its leadership including strikes near Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's residence in Tehran, prompting President Trump to describe the operation as "massive and ongoing" and urge Iranians to overthrow their government. Iran retaliated with missile barrages against Israel and U.S. military bases in the Gulf.