Operation Epic Fury: US Military Action Against Iran
President Donald Trump authorized Operation Epic Fury, a military campaign targeting Iran, citing the need to eliminate the Iranian nuclear threat and dismantle its support for terrorism. The operation, launched in partnership with regional allies, follows decades of what the administration describes as Iranian aggression.
Details of the Operation
According to President Trump, Operation Epic Fury has “hit hundreds of targets in Iran, including Revolutionary Guard facilities,” and destroyed nine Iranian naval ships, as well as Iran’s air defense systems. The operation is “moving along rapidly” and is “ahead of schedule,” Trump stated in interviews with Fox News and NBC News. He indicated a possible outcome of “decapitating” the Iranian leadership.
Key Leadership Eliminated
The operation resulted in the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader for the past 37 years. Trump stated that 48 Iranian leaders were killed in the initial strikes. The “entire military command is gone,” according to the President.
US Casualties and Continued Operations
President Trump acknowledged the deaths of three U.S. Service members and warned that more casualties are likely. He stated that combat operations are continuing “in full force” and will continue “until all of our objectives are achieved.” He anticipates the operation lasting approximately four weeks.
Justification for Military Action
The President argued that allowing Iran to possess nuclear weapons would pose a “dire threat to every American.” He emphasized the need to prevent a regime that supports terrorism from acquiring weapons capable of global extortion. The military operation is deemed “necessary to ensure that Americans will never have to face a radical, bloodthirsty terrorist regime armed with nuclear weapons and lots of threats.”
Celebrations Among Iranian Diaspora
President Trump noted the celebratory scenes unfolding within the Iranian diaspora in the United States, particularly in Los Angeles, following the death of Ayatollah Khamenei.