US and Israel attack Iran, Supreme Leader dead after February 28 strikes

Over 1,300 people have died in the conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran. This is much higher than initial reports.
By Newsroom | World News, Middle East |

DECADES OF TENSION CULMINATE IN WIDESPREAD ATTACKS, HEAVY LOSS OF LIFE

Conflict flared across the Middle East this week, with the United States and Israel launching significant strikes against Iran. The escalation, which began in late February, culminated on February 28th with the death of Iran's Supreme Leader.

Why did US and Israel attack Iran and how long could the war last? - 1

Iran claims an attack on a girls' school near an IRGC base on February 28th resulted in over 160 fatalities. By March 6th, Iran's UN ambassador reported a death toll exceeding 1,300 individuals across the broader conflict.

Why did US and Israel attack Iran and how long could the war last? - 2

PRECISION VERSUS DESTRUCTION

The stated aim of the US and Israeli offensive, according to US officials, was to cripple Iran's ballistic missile infrastructure and thwart its nuclear ambitions. This followed what US administrations have described as failed nuclear negotiations. The US withdrawal from a nuclear deal agreed upon during the Obama administration, and subsequent ramped-up pressure by the Trump administration, appear to be central to the current confrontation.

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Why did US and Israel attack Iran and how long could the war last? - 3

UNCERTAINTY OVER DURATIONS AND LEADERSHIP

Donald Trump announced the death of Iran's Supreme Leader on Saturday, February 28th, with Iranian authorities later confirming the event. The subsequent question of who is currently leading Iran, and whether the US and Israel are pursuing regime change, remains a focal point of uncertainty. Trump has offered "conflicting timelines" regarding the projected duration of the conflict, adding another layer of ambiguity.

REGIONAL IMPLICATIONS AND PRECEDENTS

The conflict's impact extends beyond Iran's borders. The war's effect on the Ukraine-Russia war has also become a question raised in the aftermath of the initial strikes. Iran's regional ambitions, even while its nuclear program was ostensibly limited by the JCPOA, are cited as a persistent factor.

Russia's involvement in Iran's war effort has been confirmed by Iran's foreign minister, though specifics remain undisclosed. Tehran had previously warned of retaliation against US military bases in the Middle East should Washington intervene militarily.

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TIMELINE OF ESCALATION

The strikes commenced in late February. The timeline leading up to this point includes:

  • Early February: Nuclear talks between Iran and the US resumed, having been stalled since June 2025.

  • June 2025: Israel launched attacks on Iran, with the US joining in strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. This event preceded the stalling of nuclear talks.

  • Trump Administration: Increased pressure on Iran to abandon its nuclear program after the US withdrawal from a nuclear deal previously agreed upon by the Obama administration and Iran.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did the US and Israel attack Iran?
The US and Israel attacked Iran to stop its nuclear program and ballistic missiles. This happened after nuclear talks failed and following increased pressure from the US.
Q: Who died in the attacks on Iran?
Iran's Supreme Leader died on February 28th. Iran also reported over 1,300 deaths from attacks on a school and other places by March 6th.
Q: When did the US and Israel start attacking Iran?
The attacks began in late February. Israel and the US had also attacked Iran's nuclear sites in June 2025.
Q: Is Russia involved in the Iran conflict?
Iran's foreign minister confirmed Russia is helping in the war. Details about Russia's help are not public.
Q: What is the impact of the Iran conflict on the war in Ukraine?
People are asking how the war in Iran affects the war between Ukraine and Russia. The full impact is not yet clear.
Q: What happens next in Iran after the Supreme Leader's death?
It is unclear who is leading Iran now. There is also uncertainty about whether the US and Israel want to change Iran's government and how long the conflict will last.