US and Israel Launch Joint Military Operation 'Epic Fury' Against Iran

On February 28, 2026, the US and Israel launched 'Operation Epic Fury,' a massive joint air strike targeting key military and political targets in Iran. On March 1, Iranian state media confirmed that Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed in the strikes, leading to 40 days of national mourning. About 40 high-ranking officials, including the Defense Minister and the IRGC Commander-in-Chief, were also killed. The Iranian Red Crescent reported at least 555 civilian deaths across 131 cities. Iran retaliated with a barrage of missiles and drones against Israel and US allies, escalating Middle East tensions to their highest point since 2023. China and Russia strongly condemned the strikes, calling for an immediate ceasefire.