Tehran, Feb 28 (ANI) — Iranian officials on Saturday vowed a “crushing response” after a major joint military strike by Israel and the United States, Tasnim News Agency reported.
Israel and the US carried out the operation, codenamed Operation Roaring Lion, striking military sites, missile production facilities and areas near Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s office. The operation name was reportedly chosen by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu; the IDF had used a different internal name, The Times of Israel reported.
Residents in southern Tehran heard powerful blasts as several ministries there were reportedly hit. Israeli sources described the attack as a pre-emptive strike targeting multiple sites, including locations in the capital, raising fears of a wider regional conflict and prompting emergency measures and public alarm.
Israel declared a nationwide state of emergency, moved some hospital operations underground and activated sirens. Iran, Israel and Iraq closed their airspace and suspended flights. The strike also disrupted diplomatic activity: nuclear negotiations between the US and Iran in Oman were affected, and rounds of talks between the two countries have continued amid the crisis.
Media reports, including the Jerusalem Post citing Walla, confirmed US involvement in the strikes. An Iranian official told Reuters that Ayatollah Khamenei was not in Tehran and had been moved to a secure location.
Following a situational assessment, the IDF said it would change Home Front Command guidelines, shifting the country from Full Activity to Essential Activity and prohibiting educational activities, gatherings and non-essential workplaces. Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant (reported as Katz in some outlets) declared a nationwide special state of emergency under Israel’s Civil Defense Law and warned of an expected missile and drone attack against Israeli territory and civilians.
Iranian media reported cuts to mobile phone services in parts of eastern and western Tehran and weakened internet connectivity in some areas.
The developments came as the US considered next steps in nuclear negotiations. Earlier, US President Donald Trump described Iran as “very difficult” and “very dangerous” while addressing supporters in Texas, saying the US faced a “big decision” and that any deal with Tehran must be “meaningful.” The third round of US-Iran talks took place in Geneva on Thursday, with another round scheduled.
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