Argus News - US Strikes 1,000 Iranian Targets in Operation Epic Fury

Washington, Mar 2: The United States has launched a massive military campaign against Iran, striking more than 1,000 targets within the first 24 hours of “Operation Epic Fury.”

Officials described the offensive as a coordinated, multi-domain effort aimed at dismantling Iran’s security apparatus and neutralizing sites posing an “imminent threat.”

Scale of the Offensive

Directed by President Donald Trump and executed by US Central Command (CENTCOM), the operation began at 1:15 am on February 28. A CENTCOM fact sheet confirmed that over 1,000 targets were struck in the opening phase, underscoring the unprecedented scale of the campaign.

The assets deployed included B-2 stealth bombers, F-35 and F-22 fighters, F-16 and F-18 jets, and A-10 attack aircraft. Electronic warfare platforms such as EA-18G Growlers, airborne early warning systems, reconnaissance aircraft, and communication relays were also mobilized. Missile defense systems, including Patriot interceptors and THAAD batteries, were positioned to counter potential retaliatory strikes.

Naval forces, including nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and guided-missile destroyers, joined the campaign. Unmanned systems like MQ-9 Reapers and LUCAS drones provided surveillance and strike capabilities, while ground-based rocket systems such as M-142 HIMARS were employed. Strategic lift aircraft, including C-17 Globemasters and C-130s, supported logistics and refueling operations.

CENTCOM noted the deployment of counter-drone systems and hinted at “special capabilities we can’t list here,” highlighting the classified nature of certain technologies.

Read more: Iran-US Tensions: UAE Says Intercepted 165 Ballistic Missiles, 541 Drones From Iran; 3 Killed, 58 Injured

 
Targets and Objectives

The offensive focused on dismantling Iran’s command structure and missile infrastructure. Strikes targeted command and control centres, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) joint headquarters, and the IRGC Aerospace Forces headquarters.

Integrated air defence systems, ballistic missile sites, naval vessels, submarines, and anti-ship missile sites were also hit. Military communication facilities were among the assets destroyed.

 Trump’s Address

In a national address posted on Truth Social, President Donald Trump described the operation as “one of the largest, most complex, most overwhelming military offensives the world has ever seen.”

He claimed that Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s supreme leader, had been killed during the strikes, calling him “a wretched and vile man” responsible for the deaths of thousands.

Trump asserted that “all over Iran, the voices of the Iranian people could be heard cheering and celebrating in the streets when his death was announced.” He further claimed that Iran’s military command had been decimated, with many commanders seeking surrender and immunity.

The president confirmed US casualties, stating that three American service members had been killed in action. “As one nation, we grieve for the true American patriots who have made the ultimate sacrifice,” he said, acknowledging the likelihood of further losses.

 
Strategic Rationale

Trump framed the campaign as essential to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and leveraging them to threaten global security. “We cannot allow a nation that raises terrorist armies to possess such weapons,” he said. He urged Iranian forces to lay down their arms and promised immunity to those who surrender, warning that resistance would mean “certain death.”

In a direct appeal to the Iranian people, Trump called on “all Iranian patriots who yearn for freedom to seize this moment, be brave, be bold, be heroic, and take back your country. America is with you.”

 Outlook

While casualty figures and battle damage assessments remain undisclosed, the scale of the operation suggests a prolonged campaign. Analysts warn that the offensive marks a significant escalation in US-Iran tensions, with potential repercussions across the Middle East. The coming days will determine whether Operation Epic Fury achieves its objectives or triggers wider instability in the region.

(IANS)