U.S. and Israel Launch Strikes on Iran, Killing Top Leaders

Retaliatory attacks from Iran hit U.S. bases and civilian targets across the region

Mar. 2, 2026 at 8:55pm

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The U.S. and Israel launched a series of airstrikes on Iran, killing Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and dozens of other senior officials. Iran responded by firing missiles and drones at U.S. military installations and civilian targets across the Middle East, including in Israel, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. The attacks have sparked fears of a broader regional conflict.

Why it matters

The strikes on Iran's leadership have thrown the future of the Islamic Republic into uncertainty and raised the risk of prolonged instability and conflict in the Middle East. The situation has prompted concerns from U.S. allies in the region, who fear being caught in the crossfire, as well as questions about whether diplomacy can still resolve the crisis.

The details

In the initial strikes, the U.S. and Israel targeted three locations in Iran, killing Khamenei and around 40 other senior officials. Iran then retaliated by firing missiles and drones at U.S. bases and civilian infrastructure across the region, including in Israel, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. The attacks have resulted in at least nine deaths so far and have disrupted daily life in many areas.

  • The U.S. and Israel launched the initial strikes on Saturday morning.
  • Iran responded with missile and drone attacks on Sunday.
  • The strikes and counterattacks have continued for a second day on Sunday.

The players

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

The former Supreme Leader of Iran, who was killed in the initial U.S. and Israeli strikes.

Donald Trump

The President of the United States, who has discussed a timeline of 'four weeks or so' for the fighting in Iran.

Keir Starmer

The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, who has said the UK will not join in strikes on Iran but will allow the U.S. to use British bases for attacks.

Emmanuel Macron

The President of France, who has said France will 'adapt' its military posture in response to the conflict.

Eyal Zamir

The Chief of the General Staff of the Israel Defense Forces, who has praised the military's early gains in the fighting with Iran.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.