On Feb. 28, 2026 the United States fired missiles into Iran, escalating tensions in the Middle East. The strikes, carried out alongside Israel, targeted Iranian cities and military sites, and have started the beginning of a broader conflict involving multiple countries.
Q: Why are the US and Israel bombing Iran?
A: The United States and Israel bombed Iran Feb. 28, because President Donald Trump has accused Iran of building nuclear weapons. There is concern that Iran would use those weapons against the U.S. or our allies. According to PolitiFact, “Trump said the U.S. sought to make a deal with Iran after bombing three of its nuclear sites in June 2025, but Iran ‘rejected every opportunity to renounce their nuclear ambitions, and we can’t take it anymore.” “Instead, they attempted to rebuild their nuclear program and to continue developing long range missiles that can now threaten our very good friends and allies in Europe, our troops stationed overseas and could soon reach the American homeland,” Trump said.
Q: Why is Israel involved?
A: Israel has seen the Islamic republic as a threat to their country and the world. In 2025, the US and Israel fought the “12 day war” against Iran. Both of these countries have accused Iran of working to develop nuclear warheads for years and have taken measures to ensure safety against that possible outcome.
Q: What has Iran done in response?
A: Iran has launched attacks on neighboring countries and U.S. bases throughout the middle east, including a base in Kuwait.
Q: Which nations are currently involved?
A: United States, United Kingdom, Israel, France, Greece, Germany, Iran, Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Cyprus, Azerbaijan and Qatar.
Q: Could this war affect oil prices and the global economy?
A: Yes, as of early March 2026, oil prices have reached over $90 a barrel, with both Brent and West Texas Intermediate reaching their highest levels since 2024, because of supply concerns based on the current Iran conflict, prices have jumped over 25% since the conflict’s start.
Q: What infrastructure or civilian areas have been damaged during the war?
A: On March 6, the head of the Non governmental organization known as the Iranian Red Crescent (Similar to the widely known Red Cross organization) Pir-Hossein Kolivand said “3,646 homes and civilian facilities have so far been targeted, while 528 commercial units have been completely destroyed”. Along with an investigation taking place on the bombing of an Iranian elementary school.
Q: What are the main military goals of the United States in this conflict?
A: The United States is in conflict with Iran due to the possibility of the nation having access to nuclear warheads and because President Trump has stated, “take over your government” insinuating his desire for the people of Iran to overthrow the Islamic Regime in Iran.
Q: What types of warfare are being used?
A: Naval and air warfare including submarines, bombers, fighter jets and aircraft carriers.
Q: Who is Iran’s political leader and what is he doing?
A: Ayatollah Ali Khamenei led Iran for 37 years until his death in the U.S / Israeli bombing of Iran on Feb. 28. Currently Iran doesn’t have singular leader but rather a body of leaders that is designated to elect a new supreme leader; one of the possible nominees is Mohsen Larijani who has been a long time secretary who has previously been known to be peaceful is trying to take up arms against the US in retaliation promising a “lesson” to America.
