The Largest Joint US-Israel Military Operation Since 2003
On February 28, 2026, the United States and Israel launched “Operation Epic Fury” (designated “Operation Roaring Lion” by Israel) — a massive, coordinated military assault on the Islamic Republic of Iran. The operation marks the most significant joint Western military action in the Middle East since the 2003 Iraq invasion, deploying over 50,000 US troops, 200 fighter aircraft, B-2 stealth bombers, and two aircraft carrier strike groups.
The strikes began at approximately 7:00 AM Tehran local time, targeting Iran’s leadership, military command structure, nuclear enrichment facilities, IRGC headquarters, missile production sites, naval assets, air defense systems, and telecommunications infrastructure. Former President Trump announced the operation via TruthSocial, stating the action was taken under Article 51 of the UN Charter — self-defense — citing Iran’s breach of multiple UN Security Council resolutions regarding its nuclear program.
Decapitation Strikes: Khamenei and Top Leaders Killed
The first wave of attacks included precision “decapitation strikes” aimed directly at Iran’s supreme leadership. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in the initial bombardment of his Tehran compound, along with his daughter, son-in-law, and grandchild. Iranian state television officially confirmed his death on March 1, 2026, triggering 40 days of public mourning and a seven-day national holiday.
The Iranian President, military chief of staff, and extensive IRGC command infrastructure were also reportedly destroyed. Israel’s defense minister issued a chilling declaration that any successor to Khamenei would be “an unequivocal target for elimination.”
Naval Devastation and the Strait of Hormuz
A critical priority in the first 48 hours was neutralizing Iran’s naval capabilities to preserve freedom of navigation through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. US Central Command (CENTCOM) claimed to have struck or sunk over 20 Iranian ships, including the Soleimani-class warship, the IRIS Shahid Bagheri (Iran’s first domestically produced drone carrier), and the IRIS Makran forward base ship.
Despite these operations, Iranian retaliatory actions have effectively blocked most commercial shipping through the strait, sending shockwaves through global energy markets. The international community now watches with mounting anxiety as this conflict threatens to reshape the entire geopolitical landscape of the Middle East.
