WASHINGTON — Israel and the United States launched a massive joint military campaign, dubbed Operation Epic Fury, on Feb. 28, targeting Iranian leadership compounds, nuclear facilities, and air defense systems. The operation aims to neutralize Iran’s nuclear capabilities and facilitate regime change.

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that the initial missile barrage achieved immediate air superiority. Among those reported killed in the opening strikes were Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Within the first 24 hours, more than 1,000 targets were hit. Reports of significant civilian casualties have surfaced, including strikes on a primary school in Minab and a hospital in Tehran.

Iranian Retaliation

Tehran responded with Operation True Promise IV, launching a wave of ballistic missiles and drones against Israel and U.S. bases in Jordan, Kuwait, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates. The Pentagon confirmed the strikes resulted in the deaths of six U.S. service members.

In a video address, President Trump offered condolences to the families of the deceased. “We pray for the full recovery of the wounded and send our immense love and eternal gratitude to the families of the fallen,” Trump said. “And, sadly, there will likely be more before it ends. That’s the way it is.”

Domestic and International Friction

The conflict has drawn sharp global divisions. While the U.S., Israel, Canada and Australia have pledged open support—alongside many Iranian Americans who view the strikes as the “dawn of a new season”—nations including China, Russia and Spain have formally condemned the operation.

Domestic opposition turned physical Wednesday when Brian McGinnis, a 44-year-old Marine veteran, was forcibly removed from a Senate Armed Services subcommittee hearing. McGinnis, who shouted, “America does not want to send its sons and daughters to war for Israel!” was intercepted by Sen. Tim Sheehy, R-Mont., a former Navy SEAL.

During the scuffle with Capitol Police and Sheehy, McGinnis’ arm was broken. He currently faces seven criminal charges.

Friendly Fire and Maritime Escalation

Tensions remain high among regional allies following a “friendly fire” incident on March 2. According to CENTCOM, Kuwaiti air defense systems—potentially the Patriot PAC-3 MSE—mistakenly shot down three U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle fighters. All six crew members survived and were recovered safely.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T5srpfeqLSE

The naval theater also saw a historic escalation on the night of March 3. For the first time since World War II, a U.S. Navy submarine engaged and sank an enemy surface vessel. The Sri Lankan navy has since recovered 87 bodies and 32 survivors from the site; approximately 60 people remain missing.

Iran has condemned the maritime strike, vowing to “shed more blood” in retaliation.