Operation Epic Fury: What We Know About the US-Israel Joint Strike on Iran

On February 28, 2026, the United States and Israel launched the most significant military operation in the Middle East since the 2003 invasion of Iraq. The coordinated assault — codenamed "Operation Epic Fury" by the US Department of Defense and "Operation Roaring Lion" by Israel — targeted Iran's military infrastructure, nuclear facilities, government buildings, and senior leadership.

The operation's most consequential outcome: the assassination of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, confirmed by Iranian state media on March 1 after initial denials.

What Was Struck

The initial wave of strikes on February 28 targeted:

• Khamenei's compound in Tehran — 30 bombs dropped by Israeli jets in a daylight raid
• Military command centers — IRGC facilities across multiple provinces
• Nuclear-related sites — Enrichment and research facilities
• Air defense systems — S-300 and domestic air defense batteries
• Naval facilities — Bases along the Persian Gulf coast
• Government buildings — Ministry and intelligence headquarters

The Assassination of Khamenei

The strike on Khamenei's compound was unique in that it occurred during daylight hours. For months prior, the CIA had been tracking Khamenei's movements and learned that a meeting of senior officials was scheduled. The strikes were timed to coincide with this meeting.

"Satellite imagery suggested that Khamenei's residence in the city was severely damaged during the attack. At the same time, attacks were carried out in at least two other locations in the city to ensure the success of the operation." — Wikipedia, sourcing NYT, Reuters

Israeli officials stated Khamenei was seen above ground at his official residence shortly before the strike. His deep bunker — whose elevator took more than five minutes to reach — was reportedly not accessible in time.

In addition to Khamenei, the strikes killed his daughter, son-in-law, grandchild, and daughter-in-law. His wife, Mansoureh Khojasteh Bagherzadeh, died from injuries on March 2.

Iranian Retaliation

Iran's response has been swift and multi-pronged:

• Missile strikes on US bases across the Gulf region
• Attack on the US embassy in Dubai (March 4)
• Strikes on Gulf states — Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, UAE all targeted
• Strait of Hormuz disruption — Iranian naval forces disrupting ~20% of world oil supply
• Hezbollah opening a front in Lebanon — Rocket attacks into northern Israel
• IRGC sleeper cell activations — Qatar announced arrests of cells

The Stated Goals

The stated justifications and goals differ between the two attacking nations:

United States (Trump administration): Framed as preventing Iranian nuclear weapons capability and responding to Iranian threats against US interests. Trump called Khamenei's death "justice for the people of Iran."

Israel (Netanyahu government): According to Al Jazeera's analysis, Israel's war aim has become clear: regime change. Israel "may not care as much about whether the transition is smooth."

International Reactions

Divided allies: Spain has pushed back on Trump's threats to cut trade over its NATO stance. The US relocated 15 aircraft from Spanish bases. European nations are mobilizing in Cyprus.

NATO tensions: The operation has strained NATO solidarity, with several European allies expressing concern about the scale of the operation and the assassination of a head of state.

Inside Iran

The country is deeply divided in its reaction:

• Many civilians celebrated in the streets after Khamenei's death was confirmed — reflecting deep opposition to theocratic rule
• Thousands gathered in mourning, with state media amplifying grief
• Internet blackout reimposed to suppress coordination and information sharing
• An interim Leadership Council formed: Alireza Arafi, President Pezeshkian, and Chief Justice Mohseni-Ejei
• IRGC pushing for swift appointment of permanent Supreme Leader — Mojtaba Khamenei (son) is a candidate
• 40 days of mourning declared, 7-day public holiday

What Happens Next

This situation is evolving rapidly. Key questions:

• Will the conflict escalate to a ground invasion?
• Can Iran sustain retaliatory strikes against Gulf targets?
• Will the Strait of Hormuz disruption trigger a global economic crisis?
• Who will succeed Khamenei — and will it matter for the conflict's trajectory?
• Will Hezbollah's involvement drag Lebanon into full-scale war?
• How will Russia and China respond?

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