Source: Reuters & AP News | March 2026
On February 28, 2026, the United States and Israel launched coordinated strikes against Iran, marking an unprecedented escalation in the long-running confrontation over Tehran’s nuclear program and regional proxy network. Reuters and AP reported that President Trump declared the beginning of “major combat operations” against Iran, citing the imminent threat of nuclear breakout.
IRGC Response & Proxy Activation
Within hours of the initial strikes, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced retaliatory attacks on U.S. military targets in Bahrain, Qatar, and the UAE. Inside Iran, Basij and IRGC-linked checkpoint forces were reported scanning for drones while roadblocks and motorcycle patrols multiplied across major cities. IRGC-run agencies acknowledged at least 10 deaths among Basij personnel in the first wave of checkpoint strikes in the Tehran area.
Strait of Hormuz & Energy Impact
Iranian strikes on a crucial Qatari gas field sent energy prices sharply higher. Washington pressed allies to send warships to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, but major partners including Germany, Japan, and Australia declined, arguing for diplomatic de-escalation. The U.S. moved approximately 2,500 Marines and the assault ship USS Tripoli toward the region.
Intelligence Assessment
Reuters reported — citing three sources familiar with U.S. intelligence assessments — that despite the attacks, the Iranian government is not yet at risk of collapse and its leadership structure remains largely intact. Iran’s ballistic missile reconstitution continues to be a primary focus, with the IRGC pursuing a “deterrence through volume” strategy aimed at overpowering Israeli and U.S. missile defenses in any future conflict.
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