U.S. Central Command announced that Iran has lost all 11 of its ships in the Gulf of Oman amid escalating strikes in Operation Epic Fury, following over 1,250 targets hit in 48 hours. This builds on earlier reports of naval losses and comes as Iranian counterstrikes intensify, killing six U.S. soldiers.
U.S. Central Command posted on X: 'Two days ago, the Iranian regime still had 11 ships in the Gulf of Oman. Today, it has none left.' The statement marks the effective end of Iran's naval presence in the area, which the U.S. military described as decades of harassment against international shipping.
Building on initial U.S.-Israeli strikes that began February 28—now exceeding 1,250 targets including command centers, ballistic missile sites, ships, submarines, and anti-ship missiles, per Joint Chiefs Chairman Dan Caine—Iran has retaliated with drones and rockets targeting Tel Aviv, Haifa, East Jerusalem, Gulf monarchies, Cyprus bases, and Abu Dhabi. Casualties include six U.S. soldiers killed, with two bodies recovered from a struck facility.
Naval clashes have escalated around the Strait of Hormuz, vital for 20% of global oil transit, with attacks on at least three vessels. Israel has struck Lebanon to degrade Hezbollah, part of Iran's 'axis of resistance.' European nations, facing attacks on French and British bases, are planning 'necessary and proportionate' responses, per leaders from France, Germany, and the UK.
The U.S. has deployed 50,000 troops, 200 aircraft, and two carrier groups—the largest since 2003—in support of the operation.
