Iran launches retaliatory missile strike on Israel

People take shelter as Iran launched missiles and drones towards Israel following the US-Israeli attacks, in Jerusalem on February 28, 2026. [Mostafa Alkharouf – Anadolu Agency]

Israel’s military said its air defense systems intercepted several missiles over Jerusalem on Saturday, following reports of a retaliatory strike from Iran, Anadolu reports.

Air-raid sirens sounded across the city as the missiles were detected and destroyed mid-air, with smoke visible in the sky after the interceptions.

Earlier Saturday, Israel launched the “preemptive” attack under the name ‘Lion’s Roar,’ declaring a “special and immediate” state of emergency across the country.

US President Donald Trump also confirmed “major combat operations” in Iran aimed at defending the American people by “eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime.”