A coordinated military campaign began on 28 February 2026 when the United States and Israel launched strikes under operations dubbed ‘Epic Fury’ (US) and ‘Roaring Lion’ (Israel). These strikes targeted Iranian leadership, military infrastructure, nuclear facilities, ballistic missile sites, air defenses, naval assets, and command centers.
The primary objectives appear to be regime change, the degradation of Iran’s military capabilities, and addressing concerns over its nuclear program. The strikes resulted in the confirmed death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
As of mid-March 2026, the war has expanded regionally. US and Israeli forces have conducted over 2,000 strikes, achieving local air superiority over western Iran and Tehran. Iran has retaliated with missile and drone barrages targeting Israel and US military bases in Gulf states.
For India, this conflict has significant implications — oil prices have surged, shipping routes are disrupted, and the strategic balance in the region is shifting rapidly.