The Operation Epic Fury campaign expanded after Iran selected a new supreme leader. The appointment followed the death of Ali Khamenei in an airstrike at the start of the operation.
Iran chose Mojtaba Khamenei as the new leader. However, Trump expressed dissatisfaction with the decision during an interview with Trey Yingst of Fox News.
Trump said he does not believe Mojtaba Khamenei “can live in peace.” Additionally, he stated that early results from Operation Epic Fury exceeded expectations.
Operation Epic Fury Expands Military Campaign
The United States and Israel launched Operation Epic Fury on February 28. The mission targeted strategic Iranian military and intelligence infrastructure.
According to U.S. Central Command, more than 5,000 locations were struck during the operation. The campaign also damaged or destroyed over 50 Iranian ships within the first 10 days.
Targets included command centers and headquarters of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Additionally, air defense systems and ballistic missile sites were struck.
Military planners also targeted Iranian Navy facilities and submarine infrastructure. Meanwhile, missile and drone production sites were included in the operation.
Strait of Hormuz Warning During Operation Epic Fury
Trump issued a warning about oil transport through the Strait of Hormuz. He posted the message on his social platform, Truth Social.
The president said Iran would face retaliation if it obstructs the vital shipping route. According to Trump, the response could be “twenty times harder.”
He also warned that the United States could strike critical targets in Iran. However, he added that he does not want the conflict to reach that point.
U.S. Forces Continue Strikes Under Operation Epic Fury
Meanwhile, U.S. forces continued daily strikes inside Iran. U.S. Central Command said operations occur both day and night.
Military officials stated that forces continue delivering “overwhelming firepower.” They also confirmed that missile launchers remain key targets.
The command said Iran may try to hide its launch systems. However, U.S. forces will continue searching for them.
Pentagon Comments on Operation Epic Fury Progress
Pete Hegseth spoke about the operation during remarks at the Pentagon. He said the United States is “winning with an overwhelming and unrelenting focus.”
Hegseth stated the campaign would continue until the enemy is decisively defeated. Additionally, he noted that each day could bring larger strike operations.
He predicted the most intense day of strikes during the operation’s second week. According to Hegseth, the mission will involve more fighters and bombers.
Meanwhile, he said Iran fired fewer missiles during the previous 24 hours. Officials believe Iranian capabilities are weakening under sustained pressure.
International Concerns During Operation Epic Fury
Hegseth also addressed international involvement in the conflict. He said Russia should not become involved in the situation.
Trump spoke by phone with Vladimir Putin on Monday. According to officials, the call included discussion about regional tensions.
Hegseth said the conversation highlighted the president’s relationships with global leaders. Additionally, it reinforced the message that Russia should avoid the conflict.
Therefore, Operation Epic Fury continues as a major military campaign in the region. Leaders now monitor developments closely as strikes continue.
