Defence Minister Israel Katz Calls Operation ‘Preventative’; IDF Issues Civilian Warning Amid Fears of Iran Retaliation
Israel carried out pre-emptive military strikes on Iran early Saturday, February 28, 2026, causing multiple explosions in Tehran and sharply increasing tensions in the region. Israel leaders said they launched the operation to stop what they described as immediate threats to Israel’s security.
Soon after the strikes began, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) sent a nationwide alert asking people to stay close to protected spaces such as bomb shelters and reinforced safe rooms.
The IDF said, “This is a proactive alert to prepare the public for the possibility of missiles being launched toward the State of Israel.”
At the time of the warning, Iran had not fired any missiles toward Israel. However, Israeli officials said they expect retaliation and want civilians to remain prepared.
Explosions Across Tehran
Iran eyewitnesses confirmed that several explosions shook Tehran in the early hours of Saturday. Reports said missiles hit areas including University Street and the Jomhouri district in central Tehran. Smoke was seen rising over parts of the city.
Iranian authorities did not immediately provide information about casualties or the full extent of the damage.
The strikes represent one of the most direct confrontations between Israel and Iran in recent months and have raised concerns about a wider conflict in the Middle East.
In a post on X Iran Military said by sharing a video ‘Let the world know that we did not start this war’.
Israel Declares Nationwide State of Emergency
After launching the strikes, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz declared a nationwide state of emergency. He used his authority under civil defence laws to put emergency rules into place across the country.
Under these measures:
Schools and educational institutions were suspended.
Public gatherings were restricted.
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Non-essential workplaces were shut down.
Civilian airspace was temporarily closed.
The Home Front Command moved from “Full Activity” to “Essential Activity” status.
Katz said these steps were precautionary and meant to prepare for a possible Iranian response, including missile or drone attacks.
What Defence Minister Israel Katz Said
Defence Minister Israel Katz described the operation as a preventative military action. He said Israel acted to remove threats before they could turn into direct attacks on Israeli territory.
Katz stated that the goal was to “remove threats to the State of Israel” and protect its citizens. According to him, intelligence reports suggested that waiting longer would have increased the danger.
He stressed that declaring a state of emergency and issuing civilian alerts was not a sign of panic, but responsible preparation. He also made it clear that Israel expects Iran to respond and that the military remains on high alert.
Sirens and Alerts Across Israel
As news of the strikes spread, air-raid sirens sounded in major cities, including Jerusalem and other populated areas. Citizens received mobile phone alerts telling them to stay near protected spaces.
Authorities advised people to follow official updates through emergency apps and the National Emergency Portal. The Home Front Command continued to share instructions throughout the day.
Officials repeated that the alerts were precautionary and that no confirmed Iranian missile launches had taken place at the time.
Background: Long-Running Tensions
The latest attack is part of ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran. The two countries have been involved in a long-standing conflict that includes cyber operations, regional proxy groups, missile programs, and disagreements over Iran’s nuclear activities.
Earlier in February 2026, the United States and Iran held renewed diplomatic talks about limiting Iran’s nuclear program. Israeli leaders have expressed doubts about these talks, especially regarding restrictions on ballistic missiles.
In mid-2025, a major aerial campaign targeted Iranian nuclear facilities. Iran responded by launching ballistic missiles toward Israel. That episode increased tensions and showed how quickly the situation could escalate.
The February 28 strikes now raise similar concerns about possible retaliation and further conflict.
Fear of Iranian Retaliation
Israeli authorities openly said they expect Iran to respond. Officials warned that Iran could use ballistic missiles, drones, or coordinate attacks through allied groups in the region.
Because of this risk, Israel declared a state of emergency and increased military readiness. Air defense systems and strategic sites remain on high alert.
While Iranian media confirmed the explosions in Tehran, Iranian officials had not released a full detailed response at the time of initial reports. Observers expect Iran to strongly condemn the attack and possibly take counter-measures.
The situation remains tense and continues to develop. Officials have not yet released confirmed casualty numbers or a full damage report from Tehran. International reactions are expected in the coming days.
Both Israel and Iran remain on high alert. The coming hours and days will determine whether the conflict remains limited or turns into a larger regional crisis.
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