US & Israel Launch 'Epic Fury' Strikes on Iran
The U.S. and Israel have launched a coordinated series of major military strikes against Iran under the codename "Operation Epic Fury," marking the most significant escalation in the region in years. Explosions were reported in Tehran, while President Trump released a video message calling on the Iranian people to "take over their government." The strikes immediately sent oil prices surging and stocks tumbling as global markets reacted to the risk of a wider conflict.
The recent strikes followed the collapse of nuclear talks in Geneva just two days prior. U.S. negotiators had demanded Iran dismantle its nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan, and transfer all enriched uranium to the United States in exchange for minimal sanctions relief, terms Iran was reportedly unwilling to accept. This escalation follows a 12-day war in June 2025, during which Israel attacked Iranian military and nuclear sites, killing several senior commanders of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and nuclear scientists. The U.S. also conducted strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities at that time, leading to a suspension of nuclear talks which only resumed in early 2026. The current operation involves a significant deployment of U.S. and Israeli air and sea assets, including F-35 fighter jets and Tomahawk cruise missiles. Targets have included military and naval facilities, missile production sites, and reportedly the office complex of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in Tehran, who is said to have been moved to a secure location. In retaliation, Iran launched missile and drone attacks on U.S. bases in several Gulf countries, including Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar and the Navy's Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain. One death was reported in the United Arab Emirates from falling debris after an interception. The conflict has had immediate global repercussions, with Brent crude oil prices spiking to their highest level since July 2025. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency issued a bulletin advising against commercial air travel over Iran and much of the surrounding region, citing high risks. International reactions have been swift, with China calling for an immediate halt to the military actions and respect for Iran's sovereignty. The European Union has called for "maximum restraint," while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy suggested the strikes offer the Iranian people a chance to oust a "terrorist regime."
