The Iran Strikes, Explained: How We Got Here and What It Means

The United States and Israel initiated coordinated military operations against Iran on February 28, 2026, targeting nuclear facilities, military infrastructure, and leadership, citing an unacceptable threat from a nuclear-armed Iran. After a 40-day ceasefire and a subsequent Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for negotiations, renewed Iranian attacks, including against commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, led to the resumption of U.S. military strikes and a naval blockade. Recent events include the deaths of three U.S. service members in attacks attributed to Iran, prompting retaliatory airstrikes and increased U.S. military presence. Iran’s president called the situation a “full-scale war.”

• The Strait of Hormuz, crucial for global oil supply, faces disruptions from Iranian threats and a U.S. naval blockade, raising concerns about global trade and energy security.
• Iran has significantly expanded its nuclear program beyond 2015 limits, accumulating 60% enriched uranium and limiting international inspections, fueling concerns about its nuclear weapons capability.
• Hamas appointed Khalil al-Hayya as its new political leader on July 20, following the death of Yahya Sinwar. Hayya is known for defending the October 7 attack and maintaining close ties to Iran.
• The IDF is set to withdraw from a “pilot zone” in southern Lebanon, handing control to the Lebanese army under a U.S.-backed agreement, coinciding with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun’s visit to Washington, D.C.