TEHRAN (Azat TV) – Coordinated strikes by the United States and Israel targeted military facilities across Iran on Saturday, February 28, 2026, with significant explosions reported in Tehran’s Pasteur district, the location of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s residence. These attacks, part of ‘Operation Epic Fury,’ mark a severe escalation in regional tensions, prompting fears of a wider conflict and raising questions about the safety of Iran’s top leadership.
Smoke was seen rising over the Pasteur district, a heavily secured area of the capital, according to a Reuters report. Witnesses cited by AFP described hearing at least three powerful blasts in the vicinity. Israel’s public broadcaster Kan, referencing an Israeli source, stated that both Supreme Leader Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian were among the targets identified for the attack. However, Iranian state television quickly affirmed that President Pezeshkian was ‘safe and sound.’
Supreme Leader Khamenei’s Residence Targeted Amid Strikes
The Pasteur and Keshvardoost districts of Tehran, both central to Iran’s political and military infrastructure, experienced missile impacts, as reported by the semi-official Fars news agency. This included a strike near offices linked to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, further confirming the proximity of the attacks to his official compound.
Ahead of the coordinated strikes, Reuters reported that Ayatollah Khamenei had been moved to a secure location, suggesting a pre-emptive measure to ensure his safety during the anticipated military action. The morning timing of these strikes was reportedly a deliberate tactic by US and Israeli forces, intended to catch Tehran off guard, contrasting with previous operations that typically occurred during nighttime hours.
Operation Epic Fury and Broader Regional Impact
The joint US-Israeli campaign, officially named ‘Operation Epic Fury’ by the Pentagon, was confirmed by a US official as a multi-day operation. US President Donald Trump announced that the primary objective was to dismantle Iran’s missile capabilities and naval forces, thereby neutralizing perceived threats to US personnel and interests in the region. This operation follows weeks of US military buildup and comes months after a 12-day Israel-Iran conflict in 2025.
Beyond Tehran, explosions were reported in numerous Iranian cities, including Kermanshah, Qom, Tabriz, Isfahan, Ilam, Karaj, and Lorestan province. In response to the escalating situation, Iran closed its airspace and restricted mobile phone services across the country, indicating a high state of alert.
Escalating Tensions and International Response
The conflict rapidly extended beyond the immediate borders of Iran and Israel. Iran launched missiles towards northern Israel, triggering air raid sirens and prompting interception efforts. Simultaneously, Iranian ballistic missiles were intercepted by air defense systems in the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, with one civilian fatality reported in the UAE due to falling debris. Bahrain also reported a missile attack targeting the US Navy’s 5th Fleet headquarters.
Saudi Arabia swiftly condemned Iran’s ‘blatant aggression’ against Gulf states, expressing solidarity with the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and Jordan, and warning of severe consequences for violations of international law. The widespread impact led to significant disruptions in regional airspace, with airlines like Air India and Emirates suspending or delaying flights, and multiple Middle Eastern airports advising passengers to check for updates.
Israel, facing direct retaliation, declared a nationwide state of emergency, suspending public gatherings and schools, and moving essential hospital operations underground. The international community voiced grave concerns over the potential for a broader regional conflagration, as the situation remains highly volatile and fluid.
The direct targeting of areas surrounding the Supreme Leader’s residence marks a significant escalation, signaling a clear intent to exert pressure at the highest echelons of Iranian leadership. This tactical shift underscores the gravity of ‘Operation Epic Fury’ and its potential to reshape the dynamics of the ongoing regional power struggle.