Operation 'Epic Fury' and U.S. Military Actions
The United States has placed more than 50,000 troops on combat-ready status for possible operations targeting Iran. Codenamed 'Epic Fury,' the initiative was jointly launched by the U.S. and Israel on February 28. After the start of military operations, the administration of President Donald Trump announced a temporary ceasefire, citing the expiration of a 60-day legal window. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that the combat mission, which began in February, has now concluded.
As part of preparations for potential action, President Donald Trump mobilized a range of assets, including:
- aircraft carriers,
- destroyers,
- Marine expeditionary units,
- combat aircraft.
Among the deployed forces is the 82nd Airborne Division, which includes roughly 2,000 elite paratroopers ready to seize a strategic oil hub on Kharg Island or secure airfields. Additionally, the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit consists of 2,500 Marines and 2,500 sailors, tasked with island or coastal operations.
Special operations forces are also on standby, with several hundred operators prepared for precision missions targeting nuclear sites, including those in Isfahan. The U.S. military presence also includes carrier strike groups, notably the USS Abraham Lincoln and USS George H.W. Bush, each carrying over 10,000 personnel and capable of launching missile and bomb strikes from the Arabian Sea.
Iran's Response and International Reaction
In the early days of the operation, reports emerged of the elimination of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. In retaliation, Iranian forces launched drone attacks on U.S. facilities in Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, and Jordan. A British base in Cyprus was also targeted. Meanwhile, Italy and Spain sent reinforcements to the Greek navy.
President Trump stated that the U.S. is 'ready to end the war and ensure safe passage for ships through the Strait of Hormuz, provided that Tehran agrees to previously outlined demands.'
At present, the situation remains tense, and further actions by both the U.S. and Iran could significantly impact regional security.
Operation 'Epic Fury' underscores the escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran, with major implications for stability in the region. Military escalation could disrupt global oil markets and reshape international relations. The high readiness of American forces signals the seriousness of U.S. intentions, but it also raises concerns about potential humanitarian consequences for civilians in Iran and neighboring countries.