U.S. President Donald J. Trump has signalled that “Operation Epic Fury” the intense military campaign by the United States and Israel against Iran will continue at full force until all objectives are met, even as the Middle East conflict escalates and casualties mount.
In a video message posted on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump stressed that combat operations were ongoing and would not halt until Washington’s goals were achieved. He described the offensive as one of the largest and most complex military actions in history, targeting hundreds of Iranian military sites including Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps facilities, air defense systems and naval assets.
Trump also said that nine Iranian naval ships and the Iranian naval headquarters had been knocked out in minutes, and claimed that Iran’s military leadership was largely dismantled, with some commanders allegedly seeking surrender.
The operation began late February 27–28, 2026, as a coordinated U.S.-Israel campaign aimed at eliminating what the administration calls imminent threats from the Iranian government, including its missile capabilities and alleged nuclear ambitions. Iran has responded fiercely with missile strikes and drone attacks on U.S. bases and regional allies, widening the conflict beyond its borders.
Central Command has confirmed that three American service members were killed and several others seriously wounded during the clashes, reinforcing Trump’s warning that more U.S. casualties are likely before the conflict ends.
Trump’s address mixed military vows with a direct call to Iran’s armed forces to “lay down your arms” in exchange for immunity or face severe consequences and he issued an appeal to ordinary Iranians to rise up against their government.
Though the president framed the campaign as defensive and necessary for global security, the situation has drawn deep international concern. Israel has expanded its operations into Lebanon against Hezbollah targets, in response to attacks by Iran-backed fighters, further broadening the crisis.
Meanwhile, diplomatic channels remain uncertain. Trump has hinted at potential discussions with new Iranian leadership once conditions allow, but U.S. military actions continue without pause for negotiations at this stage, according to White House officials.
Global markets and air travel have been disrupted by the intensifying conflict, and world leaders are now watching closely as the U.S.-Iran confrontation enters a potentially prolonged and volatile phase.
