US and Israel Launch Attack on Iran, Iran Responds with Retaliation

February 28, 2026 • Al Jazeera

US and Israel Launch Attack on Iran, Iran Responds with Retaliation

Here is a rewritten version of the news article in a neutral newsroom style:

Multiple countries have issued statements urging restraint in response to recent conflicts between Israel, the United States, and Iran. The tensions began with joint US-Israeli strikes across Iran, which has drawn criticism from global leaders.

US President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that the US was engaged in a “major combat operation” aimed at eliminating threats from the Iranian regime. Trump also pledged to destroy Iran’s missile industry and navy, while urging the Iranian people to overthrow their government.

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the attacks were intended to remove an “existential threat” posed by Iran, claiming they would create conditions for the Iranian people to take control of their own fate.

Iran has responded with retaliatory attacks on Israel and several Gulf states hosting US military assets. The country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs accused Israel and the US of violating the United Nations charter and pledged a harsh response.

The European Union’s Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Council President Antonio Costa called the conflict “greatly concerning” and urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint, protect civilians, and respect international law. The International Committee of the Red Cross also warned that a chain reaction of military escalation was underway across the Middle East, with potentially devastating consequences for civilians.

Oman, the main mediator in US-Iran negotiations, expressed dismay at the outbreak of violence and urged Washington not to become further entangled. France’s President Emmanuel Macron called for an urgent meeting of the UN Security Council, citing serious consequences for international peace and security.

Qatar and the United Arab Emirates have also condemned Iran’s attacks on their territory, with Qatar reserving the right to respond under international law. The UAE described the attack as a “dangerous escalation” that threatens civilian safety.

Source: Al Jazeera