Trump Announces “Operation Epic Fury”: U.S. Launches Major Combat Operations in Iran to Destroy Nuclear, Missile and Proxy Threats
President Donald Trump announced Feb. 28, 2026, that the U.S., coordinated with Israel, has begun “major combat operations” in Iran called Operation Epic Fury, aiming to destroy Iran’s nuclear program, missile capabilities and proxy threats.
- Operation Epic Fury: The president said the U.S. has begun “major combat operations” in Iran under that name, aiming to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon (full remarks on YouTube).
- Coordinated strikes: U.S. and Israeli forces carried out early strikes on leadership and sites deemed imminent threats; Iran reportedly launched missiles in response (CBS News live updates).
- Unclear toll: No independent, confirmed casualty figures were available in the immediate aftermath; verification remained limited (reporting: Politico; CBS News).
- Local stakes: The strikes carry strategic and economic risks that could affect markets, shipping and communities such as Walla Walla, Washington.
What the president said
In an eight-minute video posted to Truth Social, Mr. Trump framed the campaign as a defensive, decisive effort to “destroy Iran’s missile industry”, neutralize naval capabilities, dismantle terrorist proxies and prevent any move toward a nuclear weapon. He called Iran’s ruling institutions “a vicious group of very hard, terrible people” and insisted Americans must not “put up with” Iran’s actions. He reiterated: “They can never have a nuclear weapon.” (full remarks on YouTube).
“Lay down your weapons and have complete immunity, or in the alternative, face certain death,” Mr. Trump warned members of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps, armed forces and police, and urged Iranian civilians to “rise up and take over your government.” He acknowledged potential U.S. casualties, calling the effort “a noble mission” for future generations.
How the strikes unfolded early Saturday
U.S. officials told reporters the initial strikes were coordinated with Israeli attacks. Israel targeted leadership sites inside Iran while U.S. forces struck locations officials said posed imminent threats to American people and troops in the region. Iranian missile launches reportedly followed, and early accounts indicated at least two major U.S. bases were hit. Independent verification was limited in the first hours after the attacks (CBS News live updates).
Scope and objectives of “Operation Epic Fury”
According to the president’s statement and U.S. officials, Operation Epic Fury is intended to:
- Destroy Iran’s nuclear program and key enrichment facilities.
- Eliminate or cripple long-range missile production and stockpiles.
- Annihilate or degrade Iranian naval forces that threaten shipping and U.S. assets.
- Neutralize proxy groups that have targeted U.S. troops and partners in the region.
Administration officials framed the strikes as aimed at clear, imminent threats rather than open-ended regime change, emphasizing prevention of nuclear capability and reducing threats to U.S. forces, allies and shipping (reporting: Politico; CBS News).
A short history of how we got here
Tensions between the U.S. and Iran have deep roots, including disputes over regional influence, nuclear ambitions and proxy support. Recent months saw a sharp escalation:
- June 2025: The U.S. carried out strikes called “Operation Midnight Hammer,” targeting sites including Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan, framed by the White House as a warning (statement in Trump remarks).
- January 2026: Large protests inside Iran were met with a harsh crackdown. Mr. Trump publicly warned of possible strikes over human rights abuses and nuclear development (reporting).
- Jan. 28, 2026: The president warned of attacks “far worse” than the June strikes and ordered a “massive Armada” to the Persian Gulf as talks stalled (reporting).
- Late Feb. 2026: Diplomatic channels failed to produce an agreement the U.S. said would block Iran’s pursuit of nuclear weapons and long-range missiles; Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted Iran’s refusal to discuss ballistic missiles as a major roadblock (Politico).
What we don’t yet know
Initial reports offered limited independent verification of damage or casualties. The fog of combat and rapid events make early reporting incomplete. Analysts warn the situation could change quickly, with risks of wider regional fighting, more missile exchanges, and threats to merchant shipping in the Gulf. U.S. military operations in Iran also carry strategic and economic risks — markets may react, oil prices could rise, and shipping insurance costs may climb, affecting American communities (Politico; CBS News).
Israel strikes Iran and the U.S. role
U.S. officials described the campaign as coordinated with Israel but focused on different targets: Israel struck leadership targets inside Iran while the U.S. struck sites officials said posed imminent threats to Americans or U.S. forces. The joint action underscores close military and intelligence cooperation in confronting Iran’s programs (CBS News).
Implications for Walla Walla, Washington
Economic impact
- Fuel and consumer prices: A spike in global oil prices or higher shipping insurance could raise local fuel costs, increasing expenses for farmers, truckers and businesses.
- Agricultural exports and shipping: Walla Walla’s agricultural and wine exports could face higher costs or delays due to increased insurance rates or rerouted shipping.
- Local markets and retirement accounts: National market volatility can affect local retirement accounts and investments, prompting debate about risk and resilience.
Political consequences
Local elected officials and voters in conservative-leaning Walla Walla may emphasize strong national defense and support for troops. The strikes could surface in local campaigns and town halls, with candidates pressed to explain support for veterans, military families and affected businesses.
Social effects
- Military families and veterans: News of combat operations may raise anxiety among those with relatives in uniform.
- Community response: Churches, veterans groups and civic organizations may mobilize prayer gatherings, fund drives and support services for families.
Cultural relevance
Conservative communities often value national strength and support for the military; the operation’s stated goals may draw broad local support. Local media and conversations will likely focus on balancing security priorities with the human cost of conflict.
Practical preparations for residents
- Emergency preparedness: Households should review fuel, food and medication plans in case supply chains are disrupted.
- Financial planning: Residents may consult financial advisors to review portfolios against short-term market volatility.
- Community support networks: Civic leaders should coordinate veteran support and counseling services for affected families.
Reporting and sources
This article draws on the president’s Truth Social remarks and reporting from major outlets. Full reporting and initial coverage include:
Authorities caution that information in the hours after major military action is often incomplete. Local leaders in Walla Walla are watching federal briefings and may issue statements as more details become available.
