US Launches Major Combat Operations Against Iran

President Donald Trump announced 'major combat operations' against Iran on February 28, with U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stating that Tuesday will see the 'most intense' U.S. strikes in Iran. The operations mark a significant escalation in U.S.-Iran tensions, following months of heightened rhetoric and proxy conflicts in the Middle East. The strikes target Iranian military infrastructure and nuclear facilities, according to unnamed defense officials. Iran has vowed retaliation, raising fears of a broader regional war involving proxies in Yemen, Syria, and Iraq. The announcement comes amid stalled nuclear negotiations and increased Iranian drone and missile support for Russia. Global oil markets reacted sharply, with Brent crude surging over 5% on supply disruption fears.

Global Impact

Economically, the strikes risk a sustained oil price spike above $90/bbl, potentially triggering a global recession if prolonged. Geopolitically, the U.S. action isolates Iran further, but may unite Gulf states against instability, while Russia and China condemn the strikes, deepening great-power divides.