Tehran / Tel Aviv | February 28, 2026
At least 55 people, including 50 schoolgirls, have been reported dead as military hostilities between Israel, Iran, and the United States intensified across the Middle East on Saturday, according to Iranian media reports. The situation remains fluid, with independent verification of several claims still pending.
Israel and the United States launched coordinated air operations targeting military and security infrastructure inside Iran. Tehran responded with missile and drone attacks, claiming to have targeted US and Israeli military facilities across the region.
Hundreds of Military Targets Hit in Western Iran, Israel Says
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that it struck “hundreds of military sites and missile launchers” in western Iran. The military said its air force is conducting simultaneous operations—carrying out strikes while intercepting Iranian missiles.
Sirens were reported in parts of Israel as air defense systems activated to counter incoming projectiles.
Iranian Leadership Reported Safe
Iran’s state-linked Fars News Agency reported that senior Iranian officials, including President Masoud Pezeshkian, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, and senior adviser Ali Larijani, are safe and continuing official duties.
There has been no independent confirmation of the status of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
US to Continue Air and Maritime Operations
A US official said Washington will continue broad air and naval operations targeting Iranian military and security infrastructure. The official emphasized that current operations are limited to military objectives within Iran.
The US Air Force is reportedly operating in coordination with Israeli forces.
50 Schoolgirls Killed in Southern Iran, Iranian Media Says
According to Fars News Agency, a primary girls’ school in Minab city, Hormozgan province, was struck during the attacks. The reported death toll among students has risen to 40, with additional casualties bringing the total death count to 55.
There has been no official response from Israel regarding the reported school strike, and independent verification remains unavailable.
Satellite Images Show Damage Near Khamenei Complex
A report by The New York Times cited satellite imagery indicating heavy damage and black smoke near a secure compound associated with Ayatollah Khamenei in Tehran.
The report also suggested that explosions occurred in districts near the residence of former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.
IRGC Claims ‘Operation True Promise-4’
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced the launch of “Operation True Promise-4,” claiming missile and drone attacks on US military facilities across the Middle East.
According to the IRGC statement, targets included:
US Navy’s Fifth Fleet base in Bahrain
Military installations in Qatar
Facilities in the United Arab Emirates
Other regional bases
The IRGC stated the strikes were retaliation for US-Israeli operations on Iranian soil and warned that military action would continue. Damage assessments have not been independently confirmed.
International Reactions
Several countries responded to the escalation:
Belgium called for protecting civilians and said Iranian citizens should not bear the consequences of political decisions.
Norway questioned whether the strikes align with international law.
Pakistan urged immediate de-escalation and diplomatic engagement.
Meanwhile, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the safety of Filipino nationals in the Middle East is a top priority and directed agencies to ensure their protection.
