WASHINGTON, D.C. — The White House has clarified the primary goals of its ongoing military campaign against Iran, emphasizing a strategy designed to “destroy, deny, and weaken” Tehran’s military infrastructure.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that the operation aims for the complete dismantling of Iran’s missile capabilities and the neutralization of its naval forces to prevent the country from achieving nuclear weapon status.
Military Impact & Operation Progress
Launched on February 28, Operation Epic Fury has reportedly struck 5,000 targets within the first 10 days. Key military developments include:
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Naval Degradation: Over 50 Iranian vessels, including a primary drone carrier, have been destroyed.
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Air Superiority: US B-2 bombers have utilized 2,000-pound penetrator bombs to target deeply buried missile and R&D facilities.
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Declining Retaliation: White House officials claim Iranian retaliatory strikes have dropped by 90% since the conflict began.
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Ground Option: The administration has not ruled out the deployment of ground troops if objectives are not met through air and sea power alone.
Global Energy & Trade Security
Amidst the regional conflict, the US is taking specific steps to stabilize global markets and protect critical shipping lanes:
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Strait of Hormuz: The US has committed to keeping this vital waterway open, offering political risk insurance to tankers and prepared Navy escorts if necessary.
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India Oil Waiver: President Donald Trump personally approved a temporary waiver allowing India to continue purchasing Russian oil to prevent further global energy price spikes.
Casualties and Readiness
The Pentagon confirmed that 140 US service members have been wounded during the campaign’s first 10 days. While most injuries are minor and 108 members have returned to duty, eight remain severely injured.
General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, noted that US aircraft are now operating with “relative impunity” as Iran’s high-end surface-to-air missile systems have been significantly degraded.
