On Saturday, February 28, 2026, the Middle East entered a state of high-intensity conflict as Iran launched a massive wave of retaliatory drone and missile strikes across the Gulf. The attacks, confirmed by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), targeted several key US military installations in response to a joint US-Israeli offensive titled “Operation Epic Fury.”

Explosions and smoke plumes were reported near iconic landmarks, including Dubai’s Burj Khalifa and the Fairmont The Palm hotel, as regional air defenses scrambled to intercept the barrage.

Dubai and Abu Dhabi Under Fire: Interceptions and Impact

Witnesses in Dubai reported hearing multiple loud bangs as the city’s skyline was momentarily clouded by black smoke. Visuals circulating on social media showed a fire near the entrance of the Fairmont The Palm on Palm Jumeirah.

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The Dubai Media Office confirmed that emergency teams responded to an “incident” at a building in the area, resulting in four injuries. While some reports suggest a direct hit, UAE authorities stated that most incoming threats were successfully intercepted, with the fire likely caused by falling debris.

In Abu Dhabi, residents received emergency mobile alerts warning of missile threats. Shrapnel from an interception reportedly killed one individual, identified as a Pakistani national, in a residential neighborhood. The primary target in the capital appeared to be the Al-Dhafra Air Base, which houses approximately 5,000 US personnel.

Key US Military Bases Targeted Across the Gulf

The IRGC stated that the “first wave” of strikes was specifically aimed at neutralizing the US military footprint in the region. The following bases were reportedly targeted:

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What Triggered the Escalation?

The strikes are a direct response to Operation Epic Fury, a massive joint operation by the United States and Israel launched earlier on February 28. US President Donald Trump confirmed the strikes, stating they were intended to “obliterate” Iran’s military and nuclear capabilities.

Reports indicate that the initial US-Israeli wave targeted senior Iranian leadership. While an Israeli official claimed that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian were among the targets, Iranian state media maintains that the leadership is safe, though Khamenei has reportedly been moved to a secure, undisclosed location.

“We have only used our ‘scrap missiles’ so far,” stated IRGC Commander Jabari. “We will soon reveal unforeseen weapons.”

Regional Chaos: Airspace Closures and Flight Cancellations

The military exchange has brought regional travel to a standstill. Airspace over Iran, Israel, Iraq, Qatar, and the UAE has been partially or fully closed. Major carriers, including Emirates and flydubai, have suspended all operations until further notice, leaving thousands of passengers stranded.

As of Saturday evening, a third wave of Iranian strikes—reportedly involving kamikaze drones—is said to be underway.

How is the global market reacting? Would you like me to generate a real-time report on the impact of this conflict on global oil prices and stock markets?