President Donald Trump revealed on Monday that Operation Epic Fury, the ongoing United States military campaign targeting Iran, will now continue for a duration of five weeks, slightly longer than the original estimate. The operation, which commenced last Friday, is reportedly advancing faster than anticipated, although the President refrained from sharing specific tactical details during his announcement in the White House East Room.
Trump emphasized that while the mission was initially planned to span four to five weeks, the timeline remains flexible and could be prolonged if necessary to meet critical strategic goals. The primary objectives of the campaign include preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons and curbing its expanding long-range ballistic missile capabilities. These concerns stem from Tehran’s increasingly sophisticated nuclear program and missile development, despite Iran’s consistent denials of any intention to pursue nuclear armament.
Highlighting the progress made so far, Trump stated that US forces have successfully neutralized ten Iranian vessels, underscoring confidence in the operation’s effectiveness. This announcement arrives amidst a significant escalation of conflict across the Middle East, where tensions between the US, Iran, and their respective allies have intensified sharply in recent days.
Complicating the situation further, the US Central Command disclosed a serious friendly-fire incident involving Kuwaiti air defenses mistakenly shooting down three US F-15E fighter jets. Fortunately, all six crew members ejected safely and were reported to be in stable condition. They were promptly transferred to medical facilities for thorough evaluation. Kuwait’s Ministry of Defence confirmed multiple US aircraft crashes but reassured that no fatalities occurred during the incident.
This mishap unfolded against the backdrop of ongoing Iranian missile and drone assaults targeting Israel and US military installations in the Gulf region. These attacks are widely viewed as retaliatory measures following joint US-Israeli strikes on Iranian positions. In the latest wave of aggression, Iran launched missiles that struck various locations in Israel, injuring at least seven people and causing significant property damage. Explosions were reported in major cities including Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and areas within the occupied West Bank, forcing residents to seek shelter amid heightened alarm.
In Kuwait City, smoke was observed near the US embassy, prompting embassy officials to advise American citizens to remain indoors and avoid windows for their safety. Several Gulf countries, including Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, also reported missile interceptions or explosions, with air raid sirens sounding in multiple urban centers. Additionally, falling debris at Kuwait’s Mina Al-Ahmadi oil refinery resulted in minor injuries to two workers, further illustrating the widespread impact of the escalating hostilities.
Meanwhile, Iran’s National Security Council Secretary Ali Larijani dismissed rumors of potential negotiations with the United States. Writing on the social media platform X, Larijani categorically rejected reports suggesting that Tehran might engage in talks facilitated by Omani intermediaries aimed at reviving nuclear discussions. This stance signals Tehran’s firm position amid the mounting pressure exerted by the US-led military campaign.
President Trump’s declaration to extend Operation Epic Fury underscores Washington’s determination to maintain a robust posture against Iran, even as the geopolitical landscape in the Middle East grows increasingly volatile and unpredictable. The unfolding events highlight the delicate balance of military action and diplomatic maneuvering that will shape the region’s future in the coming weeks.
