ISRAEL–US JOINT MISSILE STRIKE

NEWS: On 28 February 2026, Israel carried out a daylight strike on Tehran (Iran), calling it a pre-emptive operation.

Joint Military Operation

• Explosions were reported in Tehran, with smoke rising from several areas.
• Israel initially announced missile strikes on Iranian targets.
• A US official later confirmed it was a joint Israel–US military operation.
• The US Department of Defense named the operationà “Operation Epic Fury.”
• The operation was described as “massive and ongoing.”

Iran’s Response

• Missile Retaliation Against Israel
• Iran expanded attacks beyond Israel by targeting US-linked military facilities across the Middle East, including:
  • Al Udeid Airbase (Qatar), Al-Salem Airbase (Kuwait), Al-Dhafra Airbase (UAE)

Impact on the Middle East

• Crisis now threatens the entire Middle East region
• Risk of a broader regional war involves: Israel, Iran, USA
  • Gulf countries (Qatar, Bahrain,UAE, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia,Jordan)

India’s Immediate Response

• Called for: Restraint, De-escalation, Dialogue
• Reflects India’s policy of peaceful conflict resolution.

Indian Population in Conflict Zone

• Around 10,000 Indians in Iran
• Over 41,000 Indians in Israel
• 8–9 million Indians across the Gulf region

Strategic and Economic Stakes for India

Energy Security Risk

• Nearly 60% of India’s energy imports come from the West Asia (Middle East).
• Threat to close the Strait of Hormuz raises concerns of: Oil supply disruption, Rising oil prices

Strategic Balancing Challenge

India has strong relations with:

• Israel (Strategic & defence partner)
• Iran (Energy & connectivity partner)

India’s Foreign Policy Approach

• Maintaining strategic autonomy
• Avoiding public condemnation
• Keeping diplomatic communication channels open
• Prioritising national interest