LIVE: Iran Strikes US Bases in Self-Defense After Israeli Aggression
JPhilips 
Philippines Pledges to Protect Citizens Amid US-Israeli Attacks on Iran
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has declared the safety of Filipino citizens in Iran and the wider Middle East region as “paramount” following ongoing US-Israeli strikes on Iranian territory. In a post on X, Marcos confirmed he has instructed the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Migrant Workers to determine the whereabouts of Filipinos in affected areas and take immediate measures to ensure their safety.
The Philippines has an estimated 2.1 million workers across the Middle East as of 2024, many of whom now find themselves in the path of escalating conflict as Iranian retaliatory operations continue against foreign aggression. The presidential directive comes as explosions have been reported across multiple Gulf states and as Iranian air defense systems remain active over Tehran and other cities.
Death Toll Rises to 24 Students Killed by Israeli Strike on Elementary School in Southern Iran
The number of students killed by an Israeli strike on an elementary girls’ school in Minab, Hormozgan province, has risen to 24, according to Iran’s Fars news agency. The attack targeted the school in southern Iran as Israeli forces continue military operations against Iranian territory, with young children among those killed. Earlier reports had placed the death toll at five. The strike on civilian infrastructure represents a grave escalation in the US-Israeli assault on Iran, drawing international concern as images of the victims emerge from the city.
Belgium, Norway and Pakistan React to US-Israeli Attacks on Iran
BRUSSELS – Belgium’s Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot has expressed concern over the situation, stating that “the Iranian people must not pay the price for their government’s choices.” Prevot added that Brussels deeply regrets diplomatic efforts could not earlier lead to a negotiated solution, as US and Israeli strikes continue to target Iranian territory, including civilian areas where five schoolgirls have been killed.
OSLO – Norway has questioned the legality of the attacks, with Foreign Minister Espen Barth stating that while the assault is described by Israel as a preventive strike, “it is not in line with international law.” Barth emphasized that “preventive attacks require an immediately imminent threat,” casting doubt on the justification for military action against Iran.
ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has issued its strongest condemnation yet, with Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar “strongly condemning the unwarranted attacks against Iran” and calling for an immediate halt to escalation. Pakistan urged the resumption of diplomacy to achieve a peaceful, negotiated resolution to the crisis, reflecting growing concern across the Islamic world over the assault on Iranian sovereignty.
Russia Calls for Immediate Halt to US and Israeli Attacks on Iran
Russia has issued an urgent call for an immediate stop to US and Israeli attacks on Iran, urging all parties to return to the path of political and diplomatic settlement. In a statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry said the international community must swiftly deliver an objective assessment of what it described as irresponsible actions that risk further destabilizing the region.
Moscow emphasized its readiness to assist in efforts to find peaceful solutions based on international law, mutual respect and a balance of interests. The statement comes as US and Israeli strikes continue to target Iranian territory, including civilian areas where five schoolgirls were killed in Minab, while Iran exercises its inherent right to self-defense under the UN Charter
Iran Strikes Israeli Territory Again in Continued Retaliatory Operation
Iran has launched another wave of missiles toward Israel, the Israeli army confirmed, as Tehran’s promised retaliation against US-Israeli aggression continues unabated. Sirens sounded across multiple areas after Iranian missiles were identified heading toward Israeli territory.
The Israeli military acknowledged its air force is attempting to intercept the incoming projectiles, though it admitted that defense systems cannot provide complete protection. “The defense is not hermetic,” the army stated on Telegram, keeping the public under shelter instructions.
The repeated strikes demonstrate Iran’s unwavering commitment to responding decisively to foreign aggression against its sovereignty. Tehran has made clear that its military operations will continue until the enemy is defeated, with all US and Israeli assets in the region remaining legitimate targets following unprovoked attacks on Iranian soil that have claimed civilian lives
Israel Allows Residents to Leave Protected Spaces as Situation Assessed
The Israeli army has announced that citizens in several areas across Israel are now permitted to leave protected spaces following a situational assessment by the Home Front Command. In a statement on Telegram, the military confirmed that search and rescue teams are operating across the country. The announcement comes after multiple waves of Iranian missiles targeted Israeli territory in retaliation for ongoing US-Israeli strikes on Iran
National Security Council Advises Tehran Residents to Leave Capital Amid Ongoing Attacks
Iran’s National Security Council has advised residents to leave Tehran, urging citizens to travel to other cities if they are able, while maintaining calm. The security body issued the statement as US and Israeli strikes continue to target Iranian territory, including civilian areas. The advisory comes after an Israeli strike killed five schoolgirls in Minab and as Iran’s air defense systems remain actively engaged in intercepting incoming projectiles over the capital.
Kuwait Condemns Iranian Attack, Reserves Right to Respond
Kuwait’s foreign ministry has condemned attacks on its soil, which it said were conducted by Iran in “flagrant violation” of its airspace and international law. The ministry stated that Kuwait reserves the right to respond in a manner “commensurate with the scale and nature of this attack,” warning that further military activity would undermine regional stability. The statement makes no reference to the US-Israeli strikes on Iranian territory that preceded Iran’s defensive response, nor does it acknowledge that Kuwait hosts American military assets, including Al-Salem Air Base, which Iran has confirmed was among the targets struck in its retaliation against foreign aggression.
Dubai Affirms Safety Priority as Iranian Strikes Continue
Dubai’s media office has issued a statement confirming it is continuing to operate with the safety of citizens and visitors as its “top priority” following Iranian attacks. The announcement comes as explosions have been reported across the UAE, including in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, as Iran’s retaliatory strikes against US-Israeli aggression continue to impact Gulf states hosting American military assets
IRGC Vows Relentless Military Operation Until Enemy Is ‘Decisively Defeated’
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has declared that all Israeli and US military targets in the Middle East have been struck “by the powerful blows of Iranian missiles,” vowing that the operation will continue relentlessly until the enemy is decisively defeated. In a statement, the IRGC affirmed that all US assets throughout the region are considered legitimate targets for Iran’s armed forces as the Islamic Republic exercises its inherent right to self-defense against ongoing foreign aggression. The declaration signals Tehran’s determination to persist with retaliatory strikes until its territorial integrity and national sovereignty are secured.
Qatar Condemns Iranian Missile Attack, Reserves Right to Respond Under International Law
Qatar’s Foreign Ministry has issued a statement strongly condemning the targeting of its territory with ballistic missiles, calling it a flagrant violation of national sovereignty and an unacceptable escalation that threatens regional security. Doha said it reserves the right to respond in accordance with international law following the Iranian strikes. The statement makes no mention of the US-Israeli military operations against Iran that preceded Tehran’s defensive response, nor does it acknowledge that Qatari territory hosts major US military installations, including Al-Udeid Air Base, which Iran has confirmed was among the targets struck in its retaliation
Indonesia Says President Prabowo Ready to Facilitate US–Iran Dialogue
— Veo Prompt (@VeoPrompt) February 28, 2026
Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry said President Prabowo Subianto is prepared to help mediate between Washington and Tehran following US and Israeli strikes on Iran.
In a statement posted on X, the ministry said… pic.twitter.com/ll0WKGiHc5
EU Leaders Call for ‘Maximum Restraint’ as Iran Comes Under Attack
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa have issued a joint statement expressing “great concern” over developments in Iran, calling on all parties to exercise “maximum restraint” and protect civilians in accordance with international law. The EU leaders also pledged to take necessary steps to support European citizens in the region. The statement makes no specific mention of the US-Israeli strikes that triggered Iran’s defensive response, nor does it address the killing of Iranian civilians, including five schoolgirls in Minab.
New Wave of Iranian Missiles Targets Israel in Fresh Retaliatory Strike
A new wave of Iranian missiles has been launched toward Israel, the Israeli army has confirmed, as Tehran continues its defensive operations against ongoing aggression. Sirens sounded across multiple areas in Israel after Iranian missiles were identified heading toward the country.
In a statement on Telegram, the Israeli military said its air force is “operating to intercept and strike threats where necessary,” while acknowledging that air defenses are not capable of stopping all incoming missiles. “The defense is not hermetic,” the statement warned, urging the public to follow Home Front Command guidelines and remain sheltered.
The latest barrage demonstrates Iran’s continued capacity to strike Israeli territory despite ongoing US and Israeli operations against Iranian soil.
Recap: Iran Under Attack as Regional Conflict Intensifies
Iran remains under sustained military assault from the United States and Israel, with reported strikes targeting multiple cities, including Tehran, Urmia and Minab in Hormozgan province. Iranian officials say five schoolgirls were killed in Minab following a strike on an elementary school.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has launched waves of retaliatory missile and drone attacks toward Israel, while also targeting US military facilities across the Gulf. Reported targets include Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, the US Navy’s United States Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain, Al Dhafra Air Base in the UAE, and Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait.
Conflict has reverberated across the region, with explosions reported in Doha, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Riyadh and Kuwait City. Several countries have closed their airspace, grounding flights and disrupting travel across the Middle East. Turkey’s flag carrier, Turkish Airlines, has canceled flights to Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Iran and Jordan until March 2.
Diplomatic reactions continue to emerge. The United Kingdom has reiterated concerns over Iran’s nuclear program and advised British nationals in Gulf states to shelter in place. Saudi Arabia has condemned Iranian strikes on neighboring states, while Ukraine has blamed Tehran for the escalation and called for political change.
Iranian authorities maintain that their actions constitute legitimate self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter. The Foreign Ministry has said the country’s armed forces are fully prepared to respond to further attacks. President Masoud Pezeshkian is reported to be safe, as near-total internet blackouts persist across the country and security forces remain on high alert.
Fresh Explosions Rock Doha as Second Wave of Missiles Targets Qatar
New explosions have been heard in Qatar’s capital Doha, shortly after the country’s Defence Ministry announced it had successfully downed all missiles targeting the nation in what officials described as a “second wave” of attacks. The continued strikes on Qatari territory underscore how Gulf states remain in the crossfire as Iran responds to US-Israeli aggression against its homeland
Saudi Arabia Condemns Iranian Attacks on Gulf Neighbors, Ignores US-Israeli Aggression
Saudi Arabia has condemned in the “strongest terms” Iranian attacks on the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Jordan and Kuwait, warning of “dire consequences” over what it described as violations of state sovereignty and international law. The statement makes no mention of the US-Israeli strikes on Iranian territory that preceded Iran’s defensive response, nor does it address the killing of Iranian civilians, including five schoolgirls in Minab. Riyadh’s selective condemnation overlooks the context of foreign aggression against Iran that has drawn the region into wider conflict.
Five Students Killed by Israeli Strike on Elementary School in Southern Iran
Five students have been killed by an Israeli strike on an elementary girls’ school in Minab, a city in Hormozgan province in southern Iran, according to Iran’s state-run IRNA news agency. The attack targeted civilian infrastructure, killing young students as Israeli forces continue military operations against Iranian territory. No further injuries were reported at the school.
UK Repeats Nuclear Claims as Iran Maintains Peaceful Position
Britain has reiterated that Iran must never be allowed to develop nuclear weapons, as the Foreign Office instructed British nationals in Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and the UAE to immediately take shelter. The statement comes despite Iran’s repeated denials of seeking nuclear weapons, with officials recently affirming to the UN Conference on Disarmament that Tehran seeks only peaceful nuclear energy.
Ukraine Blames Iranian Government for Escalation, Aligns with Western Narrative
Ukraine’s foreign ministry has issued a statement blaming the Iranian government for the current escalation, repeating calls for political change in Tehran while expressing solidarity with the Iranian people. The ministry claimed the violence and impunity of what it termed the “Iranian regime” is responsible for the attacks, specifically pointing to the suppression of peaceful protesters in recent months. Kyiv’s statement aligns with Western narratives surrounding the conflict, ignoring Iran’s consistent position that its military actions are defensive responses to unprovoked aggression against its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Civilians Caught in Crossfire as Iranian Missiles Strike Northern Israel
A nine-storey residential building in northern Israel was struck early Saturday as Iranian missiles pierced through Israeli air defenses, leaving at least one civilian wounded in what Tehran describes as legitimate retaliation against foreign aggression. The strike on civilian infrastructure underscores the escalating reach of Iran’s defensive operations following the unprovoked US-Israeli attack on Iranian territory.
Israeli broadcaster Channel 12 reported that a man approximately 50 years old sustained shrapnel injuries from interceptor missiles, with one apartment unit suffering extensive damage in the strike. The Israeli military’s inability to prevent Iranian missiles from reaching civilian areas raises questions about the effectiveness of air defense systems against Iran’s retaliatory capabilities.
Israel’s Magen David Adom emergency services confirmed paramedics rushed to multiple impact sites across northern Israel, providing medical treatment for blast injuries. In an official statement, MDA acknowledged scanning “several scenes where reports were received” as Iranian missiles continued their precision strikes against what Tehran identifies as legitimate military targets now expanded to include infrastructure supporting the occupation.
The successful penetration of Israeli airspace by Iranian missiles demonstrates the Islamic Republic’s commitment to defending its sovereignty and responding decisively to any act of aggression, regardless of the perpetrator’s military capabilities. As Iran’s Supreme Leader has consistently emphasized, the nation possesses both the right and the means to respond to hostile actions against its territorial integrity.
Renewed Explosions in Tehran Signal Continuing Attacks
Fresh explosions were heard in Tehran a little over half an hour ago, indicating that the operation is ongoing.
The exact locations could not be verified due to an internet blackout and limited communications across the city.
Earlier in the day, there were questions over whether the strikes represented a single attack or a broader wave. The renewed blasts suggest a sustained campaign — a position that has also been articulated by the US side.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Ministry, through its spokesperson, said Tehran maintains good intentions toward its regional neighbours but reiterated that it will defend itself if necessary.
Two Iraqi Hashd al-Shaabi Fighters Killed in Air Strike South of Baghdad
At least two fighters from Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Forces were killed and three others seriously wounded in air strikes targeting Jurf al-Sakhar, south of Baghdad, a spokesperson for the group told Reuters.
The PMF, also known in Arabic as Hashd al-Shaabi, is an umbrella network of predominantly Shia paramilitary factions, including several groups aligned with Iran.
Jordan Downs Two Ballistic Missiles
Two ballistic missiles were shot down over Jordan, the country’s military said.
It was not immediately clear who launched the missiles.
Moment an Iranian missile reportedly struck the U.S. Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain, with visible explosions and structural damage. pic.twitter.com/EjAT2kRQcv
— Veo Prompt (@VeoPrompt) February 28, 2026
Israel Ally UAE Reserves ‘Full Right’ to Respond After Iranian Missile Attack
The United Arab Emirates has confirmed it was targeted by Iranian ballistic missiles, with the Ministry of Defence stating that air defence systems successfully intercepted a number of the projectiles.
According to the ministry, falling shrapnel struck a residential area in Abu Dhabi, causing material damage and resulting in the death of one person of Asian nationality.
In a strongly worded statement, the ministry condemned the attack, reiterating the UAE’s categorical rejection of targeting civilian objects, facilities and national institutions. It described the strike as a dangerous escalation and a cowardly act that threatens civilian safety and regional stability.
The ministry further said the attack constituted a flagrant violation of national sovereignty and international law, adding that the state reserves its full right to respond to the escalation and will take all necessary measures to protect its territory. It stressed that the UAE remains fully prepared to confront any threats.
EU’s Kallas Warns Middle East Situation ‘Perilous,’ Urges Protection of Civilians
European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has described the latest developments across the Middle East as “perilous,” calling for the protection of civilians and strict adherence to international law.
Kallas said she had spoken with Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Saar and other ministers in the region, adding that she is coordinating with Arab partners to pursue a diplomatic path forward.
The EU’s top diplomat also noted that the bloc’s consular network is organizing departures for EU citizens, while non-essential personnel are being withdrawn from parts of the region.
Turkish Airlines Suspends Regional Flights as Conflict Escalates
ISTANBUL – Turkish Airlines has canceled all flights to Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Iran, and Jordan until March 2, becoming the latest major carrier to halt operations as the US-Israel attack on Iran intensifies. The suspension follows widespread airspace closures across the Middle East, effectively isolating the region commercially as military activity expands.
Multiple Explosions Rock UAE Cities; Gulf on High Alert
Multiple explosions have been reported in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, compounding earlier strikes on the UAE capital. The back-to-back blasts come just hours after Abu Dhabi International Airport closed its airspace, signaling that the Israel attack on Iran has drawn US allies in the Gulf directly into the conflict zone.
Iran Confirms Strikes on Key US Bases Across Gulf
Iran has confirmed that its retaliatory missile barrage specifically targeted five major US military installations across the region, according to the semi-official Fars news agency. The strikes hit:
Al-Udeid Air Base (Qatar) – home to US Central Command’s forward headquarters
Al-Salem Air Base (Kuwait)
Al-Dhafra Air Base (UAE)
The US Navy’s 5th Fleet headquarters (Bahrain)
An additional undisclosed US base in Bahrain
The coordinated targeting suggests a pre-planned Iranian strategy to challenge US force projection in the Gulf amid the ongoing US-Iran conflict.
Explosions Reported in Saudi Capital Riyadh
The Agence France-Presse (AFP) news agency is reporting explosions in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia. Details remain limited, but the reports indicate the Israel attack on Iran and subsequent Iranian retaliation may be widening to include Saudi territory.
Israeli Strikes Target Western Iran; Evacuation Warnings Issued
Explosions have been reported in Urmia, in western Iran, shortly after the Israeli army announced it was conducting strikes on the area. In an unusual move, an Israeli army spokesperson issued evacuation warnings for all residents living near military installations in Iran, urging civilians to distance themselves from potential targets as the US and Israel attack on Iran continues
DOHA, Qatar – The United States and Israel have launched coordinated large-scale military strikes against Iran, with President Donald Trump announcing the beginning of “major combat operations.” The attack, described by Israeli officials as pre-emptive, triggered immediate and widespread retaliatory missile fire from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) targeting both Israel and key US military assets across the Gulf region.
In a dramatic escalation of the Israel attack on Iran, explosions were reported in the Iranian capital, Tehran, as well as multiple other cities. Simultaneously, air raid sirens wailed across Israel as Iranian ballistic missiles and drones approached. The strikes mark a significant widening of the Middle East conflict, drawing in Gulf states and prompting a region-wide security lockdown.
Key Developments in the US-Israel Strike on Iran:
US-Iran Conflict: President Trump confirmed US forces are striking Iran to eliminate “imminent threats,” aiming to devastate Iranian military capabilities and prevent the regime from obtaining nuclear weapons.
Regional Missile Barrage: Iran’s IRGC confirmed it launched the first wave of massive retaliatory strikes toward Israel. Concurrently, missiles targeted the US Navy’s 5th Fleet headquarters in Bahrain and were intercepted over Qatar. An explosion was also reported in Abu Dhabi.
Widespread Airspace Closure: In a sign of the severity of the Israel attack on Iran, multiple nations including Israel, Iran, the UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait have closed their airspace, grounding flights and rerouting international air traffic.
Iran Vows ‘Decisive’ Retaliation
Iran’s Foreign Affairs Ministry condemned the overnight strikes as a “clear example of armed aggression,” asserting that the US and Israel attack on Iran violates international law and the UN Charter. In a statement, the ministry declared its armed forces are “fully prepared to defend the country and will make aggressors regret their actions,” explicitly reserving Iran’s right to self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter. State media reports indicate President Masoud Pezeshkian is safe, though a near-total internet blackout has been reported across the country.
Gulf States Caught in the Crossfire
The conflict has rapidly expanded beyond a bilateral exchange, impacting US allies in the Gulf:
Qatar confirmed its Patriot defense system successfully intercepted an Iranian missile. The Defence Ministry stated it thwarted multiple attacks, while residents in Doha were advised via mobile alert to stay indoors and away from military sites.
Bahrain confirmed a direct strike on the headquarters of the US Navy’s 5th Fleet in Juffair, with smoke seen rising from the area following explosions.
The United Arab Emirates reported a loud explosion in the capital, Abu Dhabi, according to Reuters.
Kuwait activated sirens following reports of explosions, putting the nation on high alert.
International Reaction
Dmitry Medvedev, a senior Russian official, accused the US of using nuclear negotiations with Tehran as a “cover operation” prior to launching the attack. Meanwhile, political analysts in Israel suggest Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is leveraging the conflict to shift public attention, with some skeptics questioning the viability of declared goals like regime change in Tehran.
This is a breaking news story. Further details on casualties, damage assessments, and the scale of Iran’s promised retaliation are expected shortly.
