Dubai, March 1 - On February 28, 2026, U.S. Central Command launched Operation Epic Fury, a major military campaign directed by President Donald Trump to neutralize imminent threats from Iran's security apparatus. Coordinated with Israeli forces, the operation involved extensive airstrikes targeting Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps command and control facilities, air defense systems, missile and drone launch sites, military airfields, and remnants of Iran's nuclear and missile programs. U.S. naval assets, including destroyers launching Tomahawk missiles, and carrier-based aircraft such as F-35 fighters, contributed to the initial wave, which began around 1:15 a.m. ET. Reports indicate nearly 900 strikes occurred in the first 12 hours, marking one of the largest concentrations of American military firepower in the region in recent decades.
As the President stated, our objective is to defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime.
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) February 28, 2026
The President ordered bold action. CENTCOM forces are delivering an overwhelming and unrelenting blow. pic.twitter.com/B0k5gV4YnU
The strikes extended across multiple provinces, including Tehran, Isfahan, Qom, and southern coastal areas, focusing on degrading Iran's ballistic missile capabilities, proxy networks, and naval assets. Officials described the action as a direct response to Tehran's refusal to abandon its nuclear ambitions during prior negotiations. In a significant development, the operation resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, confirmed by Iranian state media following damage to his compound in the capital. The joint effort also reportedly eliminated numerous high-ranking officials, aiming to dismantle key elements of the regime's leadership and military infrastructure.
Iran responded swiftly with retaliatory barrages of missiles and drones directed at U.S. military installations across the Middle East and toward Israel. Defensive systems intercepted the majority of incoming threats, resulting in no U.S. casualties and only minimal damage to facilities. The operation underscored the heightened tensions surrounding Iran's nuclear program and regional influence, with strikes designed to prevent the acquisition of nuclear weapons and reduce immediate threats to allied nations.
As the campaign unfolded, CENTCOM emphasized successful defense against hundreds of Iranian projectiles while continuing precision operations. The events represent a pivotal escalation in U.S.-Iran relations, with potential long-term implications for Middle East stability, nuclear non-proliferation efforts, and the balance of power in the region. Recovery from the extensive damage to military and strategic sites is expected to take years, highlighting the operation's scale and strategic objectives.