Key Developments The Trump administration launched a large‑scale military operation against Iran on 28 February 2026 . The strikes killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei , sank warships and hit over 1,000 targets . On 1 March 2026 , closed‑door briefings with congressional staff revealed that no intelligence indicated Iran planned a pre‑emptive attack on US forces. Overview of the Operation US forces employed B‑2 stealth bombers dropping 2,000‑lb (900‑kg) bombs on underground missile facilities. More than 1,000 Iranian targets have been struck, including missile sites and naval assets. Casualties: 3 US troops killed , 5 seriously wounded , and several others with minor injuries. Congressional Briefings Both Democratic and Republican staff of national security committees were briefed for over 90 minutes by U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) . Officials stressed the threat from Iran’s ballistic missiles and proxy forces, but admitted there was no evidence of an imminent Iranian strike. Political Reactions and Public Opinion Democrats labelled the action a “war of choice” and questioned the justification for abandoning ongoing peace talks mediated by Oman . The administration’s claim that Iran was about to acquire a capability to strike the US with a ballistic missile was not corroborated by intelligence reports. A Reuters/Ipsos poll showed 27% approval , 43% disapproval , and 29% undecided** among Americans regarding the strikes. UPSC Relevance Understanding this episode helps aspirants analyse: US foreign policy decision‑making and the role of the executive in war initiation (GS2). Strategic implications of Iran’s missile and nuclear programmes for South Asian security (GS3). The function of parliamentary oversight and congressional briefings in democratic accountability (GS2). The impact of regional mediation efforts, exemplified by Oman, on conflict de‑escalation (GS2). Way Forward Key questions for policymakers and scholars include: How will the US justify continued operations without clear pre‑emptive intelligence? What diplomatic channels remain viable for de‑escalation, and can Oman’s mediation be revived? How will the conflict affect India’s strategic calculations in the Indian Ocean Region? Monitoring subsequent congressional reports and intelligence assessments will be essential for a nuanced understanding of the evolving security dynamics.