The U.S. is ramping up military operations against Iran, with Defense Secretary Pete Hegset announcing significant successes in neutralizing Iranian naval and missile capabilities. Speaking alongside Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of U.S. Central Command, Hegset revealed that American forces have dealt severe blows to Iran’s military infrastructure.
During a joint press briefing, Hegset stated, “In just a few days of Operation Epic Fury, you and your team have delivered devastating, precise strikes, destroying much of the Iranian fleet and rendering it ineffective in combat while neutralizing missile bases and launch facilities, establishing complete air superiority.” The operation, which commenced on February 28, has reportedly led to the destruction of over 30 Iranian combat vessels.
Admiral Cooper noted that since the operation began, ballistic missile strikes against Iran have decreased by 90%, and drone attacks have dropped by 83%. President Donald Trump further emphasized the impact of the military campaign, claiming that 58% of Iran’s missile launchers have been destroyed. He asserted, “Iran is set back by a decade before they can rebuild.”
In comments made during a White House reception, Trump remarked that Iran has lost all its aircraft and suggested that their missile stockpiles are depleted. He stated, “They are doing pretty well, but we want to fight even more than they do.”
The military actions are part of a broader strategy following Israel’s attack on Tehran on February 28. Trump characterized the U.S. military’s involvement as a “major combat operation” aimed at eliminating imminent threats posed by the Iranian regime, which he accused of funding and training militants in Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and Palestine.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has responded by launching missiles and drones toward Israel and targeting U.S. military bases in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. In light of these developments, French President Emmanuel Macron has called for an urgent meeting of the United Nations Security Council.
The European Union has reiterated its commitment to maintaining regional security and stability in the Middle East. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed support for the Iranian people, advocating for their chance to rid themselves of what he termed a “terrorist regime” and to ensure safety for all affected by Iranian aggression.
On February 28, Trump claimed that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was dead, a statement later confirmed by the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA). Following this, the IRGC announced the initiation of what it described as the most destructive offensive operation in the history of the Islamic Republic against Israel and U.S. military installations.
Trump has warned the Iranian regime to abandon its military plans, threatening a “very strong response” if they proceed. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that the next phase of military operations would be even more devastating.
On March 3, sources from Iran International reported that the Assembly of Experts in Iran had elected a new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of the deceased Ali Khamenei.
The U.S. military has intensified operations against Iran, claiming significant successes in neutralizing its naval and missile capabilities. President Trump and Defense Secretary Hegset highlighted the effectiveness of recent strikes, while regional tensions escalate following Israel's attack on Tehran and Iran's retaliatory threats.