Escalation in the Middle East: US and Israel Launch Strikes on Iran
The United States and Israel have initiated a series of strikes against targets within Iran, marking a significant escalation in regional tensions. Operation Epic Fury, as the American side has dubbed the operation, alongside Israel’s Roaring Lion, commenced Saturday, February 28, 2026, with precision munitions deployed from air, land and sea.
What Was Targeted?
US Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that the strikes focused on “Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps command and control facilities, Iranian air defense capabilities, missile and drone launch sites, and military airfields.” Targets as well included the residence of Iran’s supreme leader. The operation involved what CENTCOM described as the “largest regional concentration of American military firepower in a generation.”
The Israel Defense Forces reported utilizing approximately 200 fighter jets, dropping munitions on roughly 500 objectives, including aerial defense systems and missile launchers. Footage released by both countries showcased the launch of missiles from warships and aircraft, as well as the aftermath of strikes on Iranian military installations.
Weapons Employed in the Strikes
US forces utilized Tomahawk cruise missiles launched from warships and the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS). The scale of the operation demonstrates a coordinated effort to dismantle what CENTCOM described as the Iranian regime’s security apparatus, prioritizing locations posing an “imminent threat.”
Iran’s Response and Regional Impact
Following the strikes, Iran launched counterattacks against Israel and neighboring nations. Whereas many of these attacks were reportedly intercepted, some damage occurred. Countries targeted included Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Jordan, with reports of injuries from falling debris in some areas. Bahrain’s headquarters of the US Navy’s 5th Fleet was also reportedly hit by an Iranian missile.
Iranian officials claim at least 85 people were killed in an attack on a girls’ elementary school, and the Iranian Red Crescent reported 201 fatalities across the country. These reports have not been independently verified.
US and Israeli Objectives
President Trump stated the aim of the operation was to prevent Iran from ever acquiring a nuclear weapon and vowed to destroy Iran’s missile program. He called on Iranian forces to surrender, warning of “certain death” if they did not. CENTCOM affirmed the objective is to defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime.
Disruptions to Air Travel
The conflict has caused significant disruption to air travel in the region, with numerous flights cancelled and airspace closures implemented. This impacts one of the world’s busiest flight routes, causing widespread travel delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CENTCOM? US Central Command is one of the eleven unified combatant commands of the U.S. Department of Defense, responsible for the Middle East.
Who is the current commander of CENTCOM? Admiral Charles B. Cooper II, USN, is the current commander of US Central Command.
What was Operation Epic Fury? Operation Epic Fury is the name given to the US side of the coordinated strikes against Iran, alongside Israel’s Operation Roaring Lion.
What weapons were used in the strikes? The US employed Tomahawk cruise missiles and HIMARS, while Israel utilized approximately 200 fighter jets.
What is Iran’s response? Iran has launched counterattacks against Israel and neighboring nations.
Did you know? CENTCOM was founded on January 1, 1983.
Pro Tip: Stay informed about travel advisories and potential disruptions if you are traveling in or near the Middle East.
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