U.S. And Israel Launch Major Attack on Iran – Operation Epic Fury
Washington – The United States, in a joint operation with Israel, launched a major strike on Iran on Saturday, February 28, 2026, targeting sites in Tehran and other cities. The operation, dubbed “Operation Epic Fury” by the Pentagon, has plunged the Middle East into a new and unpredictable conflict. Iran quickly retaliated against U.S. Bases in the region and Israel, according to reports.
Trump Announces the Strikes
President Donald Trump announced the start of major combat operations in a video address, stating the action was not just for the present but “for the future, and it is a noble mission.” He cited 47 years of what he described as the Iranian regime’s “death to America” rhetoric and a campaign of bloodshed and mass murder as justification for the strikes.1
Briefings and Risk Assessment
Prior to the attack, Trump received briefings from key national security officials, including CIA Director John Ratcliffe, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff U.S. General Dan Caine, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Admiral Brad Cooper, head of U.S. Central Command, also participated in discussions at the White House Situation Room.1
Officials warned Trump of potential risks, including retaliatory strikes on U.S. Bases by Iranian missiles and attacks by Iranian proxies in Iraq and Syria. Despite a significant U.S. Military buildup, concerns were raised about the limitations of air defense systems in the region.1
Objectives and Targets
Trump outlined sweeping objectives for the operation, including destroying Iran’s missile capabilities, eliminating its navy, and preventing it from developing nuclear weapons. He also expressed hope that the strikes would empower the Iranian people to overthrow their government.12
An Israeli official reported that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian were targeted, though the outcome of those strikes remains unclear.2
Escalation of Risk
The campaign against Iran represents an escalation of risk for the Trump administration, exceeding the risk level of previous actions such as the raid in Venezuela and the bombing of Iranian nuclear sites.2
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have threatened attacks on U.S. Bases and interests in the region, vowing retaliation until “the enemy is decisively defeated.” Experts warn of potential Iranian responses including missile strikes, drone attacks, and cyber warfare.2
Congressional Response
Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-41) issued a statement supporting President Trump’s decision, calling the Iranian regime “the head of the snake” responsible for the deaths of Americans and allies. He stated the operation would protect America and provide the Iranian people an opportunity for freedom.3
Politicians are divided on the attack.4
Expert Analysis
Experts caution that the conflict could take dangerous turns. Nicole Grajewski with the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace noted that toppling the Iranian government is “easier said than done,” citing the fragmented nature of the opposition.1
Daniel Shapiro, a former senior Pentagon official, warned that Iran retains the capability to inflict damage despite the U.S. And Israeli strikes, possessing more ballistic missiles than the U.S. Has interceptors.2