Trump Announces 'Operation Epic Fury' as Major US-Israel Military Strike on Iran
In a dramatic video address posted on Truth Social, former US President Donald Trump declared that the United States is executing one of the largest military offensives in modern history, a joint operation with Israel targeting Iran. Trump described Operation Epic Fury as an overwhelming and complex campaign, with hundreds of targets struck across Iran within the past 36 hours.
Details of the Military Operation and Regional Fallout
According to Trump, the strikes have focused on key Iranian assets, including:
- Revolutionary Guard facilities
- Air defense systems
- Naval assets, with nine ships reportedly destroyed
US officials indicate that the operation was months in planning, leading to a significant escalation in the region. Iran has retaliated with missile and drone attacks on Israel and Gulf locations, resulting in disruptions to global markets and air travel. US Central Command confirmed the deaths of three American service members, heightening fears of a wider conflict.
Key Statements from Trump's Video Address
Trump made several bold claims and directives in his message:
- Scale of the Offensive: "Over the past 36 hours, the United States and its partners have launched Operation Epic Fury, one of the largest, most complex, most overwhelming military offensives the world has ever seen."
- Targets and Casualties: He stated that hundreds of targets in Iran were hit, and announced the death of Ayatollah Khamenei, whom he called a "wretched and vile man."
- US Military Losses: Trump acknowledged the deaths of three US service members, expressing national grief for their sacrifice.
- Continued Operations: "Combat operations continue at this time in full force. And they will continue until all of our objectives are achieved."
- Nuclear Threat: He warned against Iran possessing long-range missiles and nuclear weapons, labeling it a dire threat to America.
- Call to Action: Trump urged Iranian forces to lay down arms for immunity and called on Iranian patriots to seize the moment for freedom.
Trump concluded by asserting that he fulfilled a promise to the public, emphasizing ongoing support for the operation. The situation remains fluid, with Western allies considering further defensive measures as regional tensions mount.
