Israel says it launched ‘pre-emptive’ strike on Iran

TEHRAN

A plume of smoke rises following a reported explosion in Tehran on Feb. 28, 2026.

Israel said on Feb. 28 it launched a “pre-emptive” missile attack against Iran, as explosions were reported in Tehran and Israeli authorities warned the public to prepare for possible retaliation.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said the operation was aimed at “removing threats to the State of Israel.”

Israel’s military said it activated air-raid sirens in areas across the country as a precaution, citing the possibility of missiles being launched toward Israel in response.

In Iran, state-linked media reported that explosions were heard in the capital, while there was no immediate official comment from Tehran on what had been hit or whether there were casualties.

The strike comes amid heightened tensions over Iran’s nuclear program and after Washington and Tehran resumed negotiations in February, even as Israel has pressed for tougher terms that would go beyond limiting enrichment.