JERUSALEM / TEHRAN — Following the massive pre-emptive strikes by Israel and the United States earlier today, Saturday, February 28, 2026, Iran has officially launched its first wave of retaliatory attacks. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced this afternoon that a significant number of drones and ballistic missiles have been fired toward “occupied territories” (Israel) and U.S. military bases in the region.
The retaliatory strikes have triggered nationwide air raid sirens in Israel, particularly in northern regions like Haifa and Safed. Israeli citizens have been ordered to enter underground shelters immediately, as the military’s Home Front Command shifted the country from “Full Activity” to “Essential Activity.” This transition includes a complete ban on educational activities, large gatherings, and non-essential workplaces. The Israeli military has confirmed it is currently intercepting incoming projectiles over various parts of the country.
Retaliation Spreads to U.S. Regional Bases
The IRGC’s “crushing response” has expanded beyond Israel, targeting several U.S. military installations:
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Bahrain: The headquarters of the U.S. Navy’s 5th Fleet was reportedly hit by a missile attack. Explosions were also heard in the capital, Manama.
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Kuwait & Qatar: Explosions and sirens have been reported near U.S. bases in both countries. Qatar’s Patriot interceptors were seen downing at least one incoming missile near the Al-Udeid air base.
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Jordan: Air raid sirens sounded in Amman as the kingdom’s airspace became a corridor for the incoming barrage. The U.S. Embassy in Jordan has issued a “shelter-in-place” order for all its personnel.
Total Airspace Closure and Diplomatic Alerts
As of 3:00 PM IST, the entire Middle Eastern sky has effectively been cleared of civilian traffic. Israel, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, and several Gulf nations—including the UAE, Bahrain, and Qatar—have shuttered their airspaces until further notice. Major airlines, including Air France, Lufthansa, and India’s IndiGo and Air India, have cancelled all flights to the region.
The Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv and Tehran issued urgent advisories today, warning the thousands of Indian nationals in the region to exercise “utmost caution,” remain close to protected spaces, and avoid all non-essential travel.
