Five days into Operation Epic Fury, launched by the US and Israel on February 28, 2026, strikes have killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, targeted nuclear facilities and missiles, and prompted 555 reported Iranian deaths. President Trump outlined a 4-5 week campaign to eliminate nuclear and missile threats, with six US service members also killed.
Operation Epic Fury began February 28 amid failed nuclear talks. US envoy Steve Witkoff disclosed Iran possessed 460kg of 60% enriched uranium—enough for 11 bombs—and rejected a US civilian fuel offer, proudly intending weaponization, per Fox News.
Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu met Trump February 11 to advocate strikes. Targets included Tehran's nuclear sites, IRGC bases, and missile infrastructure; US destroyers fired from the Persian Gulf, destroying Iran's Gulf of Oman navy and mobile launchers, per US Central Command.
On March 2, Trump addressed objectives: dismantle missiles, navy, terrorism funding, and nuclear program. "We're ahead of projections," he said. NATO's Mark Rutte endorsed, citing Iran's near-nuclear threat to Israel and Europe.
Iran reported 555 deaths (Red Crescent); US confirmed six soldiers killed by a Kuwait missile. No ground troops planned; focus on airpower and Iranian opposition.
Domestically, Democrats like Sen. Brian Schatz criticized lacking congressional notice beyond Gang of Eight, deeming it a 'war of choice.' Sec. State Marco Rubio cited War Powers compliance. Iranian FM Abbas Araghchi accused US proxy action for Israel.
