Tehran/Tel Aviv, 28 February 2026 (dpa/MIA)  - Iran has launched missiles towards Israel following joint US-Israeli strikes on the country, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) said on Saturday.

"A short while ago, the IDF identified missiles launched from Iran toward the territory of the State of Israel," it said in a post on X.

"Defensive systems are operating to intercept the threat."

The US-Israeli strikes mark a major escalation in a long-running dispute over Iran's controversial nuclear program.

While Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz spoke of a pre-emptive strike, US President Donald Trump said the country's military has launched "major combat operations" to eliminate "threats by the Iranian regime."

Trump told Iranians that they would soon be free to take over their government.

"To the great proud people of Iran, I say tonight that the hour of your freedom is at hand. Stay sheltered. Don't leave your home. It's very dangerous outside. Bombs will be dropping everywhere.

"When we are finished, take over your government. It will be yours to take. This will probably be your only chance for generations," he said.

MIA file photo