State of the World from NPR The U.S. and Israel launch a major attack on Iran
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Feb 28, 2026 Ali Vales, Iran Project Director at the International Crisis Group, explains Iran's internal dynamics and regional risks. Greg Myrie, NPR Pentagon correspondent, reports on the U.S. and Israeli strikes and immediate military effects. They discuss strike details, Iran's response and civilian impact, risks of wider destabilization, and how Iranians are receiving the news.
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Operation Epic Fury Began With Massive Strikes
- The U.S. and Israel launched a large coordinated air campaign called Operation Epic Fury hitting Tehran and other cities after sunrise.
- Greg Myrie reports huge explosions, thick smoke, and preliminary strikes across Iran while specifics on nuclear-site damage remain unclear.
Trump Signals Regime Change While Avoiding Ground Invasion
- President Trump framed the campaign as dismantling Iran's missile program and navy and accused Iran of rebuilding its nuclear program.
- Trump explicitly urged Iranians to take over their government once the strikes finish, signaling a push for regime change without committing to U.S. ground forces.
Iran Calls Strikes Sovereignty Violation And Warns Civilians
- Iran labeled the strikes a gross violation of sovereignty and said both military and civilian targets were hit, warning citizens to avoid crowds and closing schools.
- The foreign ministry pledged to defend itself, emphasizing domestic disruption and civil-protection measures.