Israel strikes Iran: state of emergency and closed skies over the country

The morning of February 28, 2026 became one of the most tense for Israel in recent years. The State of Israel launched a preemptive strike on targets in Iran, after which a state of emergency was declared throughout the country and civil defense systems were activated.

The start of the operation was officially announced by Defense Minister Israel Katz. Almost simultaneously, Iranian news agencies reported explosions in Tehran, and international media confirmed the strikes. According to incoming information, US forces are also participating in the operation.

State of emergency throughout the territory of Israel

In light of the expected response from Iran, Israeli authorities have moved to immediate security measures.

The Defense Minister signed a special order under the Civil Defense Law, according to which a state of emergency was declared throughout the country.

The military warns: ballistic missile and drone attacks on Israeli territory and civilian infrastructure are possible in the near future.

Residents are instructed to strictly follow the instructions of the Home Front Command, check access to protected areas, and stay near safe zones.

At 08:15 AM, air raid sirens sounded in several key regions — Jerusalem, Gush Dan, Haifa, and other cities in the country.

The Home Front Command explained that the early warning system was activated in advance, and notifications were sent directly to citizens’ mobile phones to prepare the population for a possible missile attack. At the time of the statement, there was no mandatory requirement to stay in shelters constantly.

In the rapidly changing situation, NANews — Israel News | Nikk.Agency notes: such preemptive alerts have become a key element of Israel’s strategy to protect the civilian population during regional escalation.

Israel closes airspace

Almost immediately after the start of the operation, the Israeli Ministry of Transport announced a complete closure of airspace for civilian aviation.

Transport Minister Miri Regev appealed to citizens to temporarily refrain from traveling to airports until further notice.

Passengers outside Israel are advised to closely monitor airline messages and official information about the resumption of flights after the situation stabilizes.

Authorities emphasized that the decision is preventive and related to the assessment of security threats. The reopening of airspace is possible only after additional risk assessments, and the resumption of flights will be announced in advance — at least 24 hours prior.

What the current situation means

The closure of the sky and the declaration of a state of emergency indicate the expectation of a possible large-scale response from Iran. Israeli security structures continue to constantly assess the situation in conjunction with the military and national services.

At the moment, the key task remains the protection of the civilian population and maintaining the functioning of the country in conditions of potential regional escalation.

The situation is developing in real-time, and further decisions will directly depend on the level of threats and the actions of the parties involved in the conflict.