'Lion's Roar': What We Know About US-Israel Strikes On Iran

Last Updated:February 28, 2026, 13:08 IST

Explosions from the strikes occurred near the offices of Ayatollah Khamenei in Tehran — but it’s not confirmed whether he was in those offices

Israel on Saturday said it has launched a pre-emptive military attack on Iran. The Israeli Defence Forces and government officials have publicly stated that they carried out strikes on Iranian territory, describing them as aimed at neutralising perceived threats to Israel’s security.

Several explosions have been reported in central Tehran this morning. Iranian media and witnesses report missiles hitting areas of the capital, including regions like University Street and Jomhouri. Smoke has been seen rising from the city. Reports citing US officials say Americais participating in these strikes too.

Here’s what we know so far on the US-Israel joint strikes on Iran on February 28:

Israel Launches Operation ‘Lion’s Roar’ In Iran

Multiple news outlets — including local Iranian media — report explosions in central Tehran, with visible smoke and blasts heard in multiple districts. Some reports place strikes near sensitive government areas, including close to the offices of Iran’s Supreme Leader. Iran has named the operation ‘Lion’s Roar’.

Where Is Ayatollah Khamenei?

According to Associated Press, explosions from the strikes occurred near the offices of Ayatollah Khamenei in Tehran — but it’s not confirmed whether he was in those offices at the time. Iranian state media acknowledged the explosion in that area but did not confirm his presence or condition. Multiple news outlets note that he “hasn’t been seen publicly in recent days" amid growing tension with the United States. That suggests he may be out of public view for security reasons, but no official Iranian government statement has confirmed his exact location. Some local reports and unverified social media commentary (not confirmed by major news agencies) suggest he may have been moved to a “safe location" or secure facility", which is common practice for national leaders during major attacks — but these claims are not verified by reputable sources.

Is US Part Of These Strikes?

US officials say American forces are actively participating in the current strikes on Iran alongside Israel. Reports citing US officials say that the United States is part of the military operation against targets in Iran, though the Pentagon has not issued a full public confirmation as of now. This participation comes amid significant US military deployments in the region aimed at countering Iranian missile and nuclear capabilities — part of a broader strategy that has seen US assets positioned throughout the Middle East.

The US Embassy in Qatar has issued an advisory saying, “The US Embassy in Qatar is implementing a shelter-in-place for all personnel. We recommend all Americans do the same until further notice."

The US strikes against Iran were being carried out by air and sea, a US official told Reuters on Saturday.

Israel Declares a state of emergency

Israeli authorities have activated emergency protocols, closed airspace, and issued alerts to civilians preparing for possible Iranian retaliation, including missiles or drones. Sirens have sounded within Israel as part of precautionary measures.

Israel, Iran Airspace Shut

Iran has shut down its airspace entirely following the start of the strikes, meaning civilian and commercial flights are being halted or rerouted.

Israel has also closed its airspace, directing that flights should not enter or depart until further notice due to the threat of Iranian missile or drone retaliation.

This escalation comes amid already high tensions between Israel and Iran over Iran’s nuclear and missile programs, and broader Middle East security dynamics involving the United States and other regional powers.

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