US, Israel bomb Iran: A timeline of talks and threats leading up to attacks
Al Jazeera
February 28, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The United States and Israel have escalated tensions with Iran by launching military strikes despite ongoing nuclear negotiations. These attacks mark a significant escalation in the region's conflict, with Iran responding with missile strikes across several countries, including Israel, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, and Iraq. President Trump described the operations as "major combat" aimed at eliminating threats from Tehran. This move comes after failed diplomatic efforts and escalates an already volatile situation since a brief June 2025 war.
The timeline of events reveals a pattern of increasing hostilities. In early June 2025, Israel attacked Iranian nuclear and military targets, prompting Iran to retaliate with missile strikes on Israeli cities. Subsequent US airstrikes in July further degraded Iran's nuclear capabilities, though Tehran claimed the program was not entirely destroyed. A ceasefire brokered by the US ended hostilities after 12 days, but tensions persisted as Iran refused to halt uranium enrichment and resumed nuclear talks only under European pressure.
By early 2026, Iran's internal situation worsened with widespread protests over economic hardship and rising prices, leading to internet shutdowns and further instability. Meanwhile, the US continued to signal its readiness for military action, with Trump invoking rhetoric of "annihilation" against Iran. The region remains on high alert as this conflict could reshape Middle Eastern geopolitics and international relations.
This escalation underscores the fragile state of nuclear negotiations and the potential for broader regional instability. The situation is closely monitored by global observers, as it impacts US-Iran relations, Israel's security, and regional alliances. The outcome could have far-reaching consequences for global energy markets and international diplomacy efforts.
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/28/2026