Overview
The United States and Israel launched coordinated air strikes against Iran on 28 February 2026, marking the third day of a rapidly escalating conflict. The attacks targeted Iran’s nuclear‑related facilities and major cities, prompting retaliatory missile launches on Israeli and US bases, disruption of oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz, and heightened security concerns for India’s INSTC. The episode underscores the interplay of strategic doctrines, regional alliances, and global energy security.
Key Developments
- Operation ‘Lion’s Roar’: Israel’s daylight strike on Tehran and several Iranian cities, including Isfahan, was announced by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a joint US‑Israel operation.
- Operation “Epic Fury”: US President Donald Trump confirmed US involvement, labeling the strikes as “major combat operations in Iran” and reiterating the US stance against Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
- Operation ‘True Promise 4’: Iran retaliated with missile attacks on Tel Aviv and US assets, also targeting US‑aligned Gulf states – UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait and Qatar.
- Strait of Hormuz Closure: The IRGC warned vessels that the strait was closed, threatening a choke‑point for global oil and LNG shipments.
- Begin Doctrine: Israel’s policy that pre‑emptive strikes are justified if an adversary is perceived to possess weapons of mass destruction.
- Impact on India: The conflict jeopardises the Chabahar Port and the broader INSTC, both critical to India’s trade diversification.
- Axis of Resistance: Iran‑backed groups – Hezbollah, Hamas, PIJ and the Houthis – have pledged support, widening the geopolitical stakes.
Important Facts
The strikes caused significant damage to Iran’s ballistic‑missile infrastructure in Isfahan and naval facilities in Kenarak. Iranian missiles hit residential areas in Tel Aviv, raising civilian casualty concerns. Global shipping routes faced disruptions, with oil prices reacting to the perceived threat to the Strait of Hormuz.
UPSC Relevance
1. Begin Doctrine illustrates how doctrinal narratives shape foreign‑policy decisions.
2. The Axis of Resistance highlights non‑state actors’ role in modern warfare.
3. Disruption of the Strait of Hormuz underscores the strategic importance of energy corridors.
4. The impact on Chabahar Port and the INSTC is directly linked to India’s “Neighbourhood First” and “Act East” policies, a frequent UPSC essay topic.
Way Forward
For policymakers, maintaining open communication channels with Iran while reinforcing deterrence is essential to prevent further escalation. India should accelerate alternative trade routes, such as the INSTC, and diversify energy imports to mitigate Strait‑of‑Hormuz risks. Strengthening diplomatic engagement with Gulf states and the broader international community can help manage the fallout from the US‑Israel‑Iran confrontation.