Trump Declares Victory in Operation Epic Fury Against Iran
President Donald Trump claims Iranian military capabilities are decimated following a joint U.S.-Israeli campaign, despite ongoing maritime conflict in the Strait of Hormuz and regional instability.
Beginning February 28, 2026, Donald Trump authorized Operation Epic Fury, a joint U.S.-Israeli military campaign to dismantle Iran's nuclear ambitions, missile arsenals, and naval power. The offensive began with the assassination of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, who was succeeded by his son, Mojtaba Khamenei. U.S. Central Command reports striking over 5,500 targets, including the total destruction of the Soleimani-class warships and severe damage to the Kharg Island oil export hub. Trump has repeatedly declared the war won, asserting that Iran's air force and navy are decimated, though he maintains the need to finish the job to prevent nuclear reconstruction.
Iran responded by closing the Strait of Hormuz to U.S. and allied shipping and launching retaliatory missile and drone strikes against Israel, U.S. bases in the Gulf, and infrastructure in Bahrain, Oman, and Iraq. These actions triggered a global energy crisis, driving oil prices above $100 per barrel and prompting the International Energy Agency to coordinate a record 400-million-barrel release of strategic reserves. Meanwhile, the conflict expanded into Lebanon, with Israel striking Hezbollah targets in Beirut.
Casualties are significant, with reports of over 2,000 deaths, primarily in Iran and Lebanon. The administration has faced criticism for a lack of a clear exit strategy and for a U.S. strike on a girls' school in southern Iran that killed over 160 children. While Trump has signaled a desire to wind down operations due to economic pressure, he has rejected Iranian ceasefire offers, demanding unconditional surrender and the total abandonment of nuclear ambitions.
