Washington, D.C. – US President Donald Trump has officially informed Congress about Operation Epic Fury, a large-scale military strike conducted against Iran on February 28, 2026. In a formal letter sent under the War Powers Resolution, Trump defended the action as necessary to protect US interests, regional allies, and global maritime security.
The announcement has significantly escalated tensions in the Middle East, with Iran launching retaliatory missile and drone attacks across the region.
What Is Operation Epic Fury?
According to the letter sent to Congress, Operation Epic Fury involved precision airstrikes targeting multiple strategic sites inside Iran. These included:
Ballistic missile installations
Maritime mining capabilities
Air defense systems
Command and control centers
President Trump stated that the strikes were conducted to:
Protect US forces stationed in the region
Safeguard the US homeland
Ensure the free flow of maritime commerce through the Strait of Hormuz
Support collective self-defense efforts of regional allies, including Israel
The President emphasized that no US ground troops were deployed during Operation Epic Fury, and that the mission was designed to minimize civilian casualties.
A key justification behind Operation Epic Fury was securing the Strait of Hormuz — one of the world’s most critical oil transit chokepoints. Nearly one-fifth of global oil supplies pass through this narrow waterway.
US officials argue that Iranian missile and maritime mining capabilities posed a direct threat to commercial vessels and naval forces operating in the region.
Trump’s Justification Under War Powers Resolution
In his communication, Trump stated he acted under his constitutional authority as Commander in Chief and in accordance with the War Powers Resolution (Public Law 93-148).
He wrote that Operation Epic Fury was necessary to counter what he described as Iran’s continued “malign behavior” and growing missile capabilities. Trump also referenced a previous military campaign, Operation Midnight Hammer, conducted last year, claiming that despite its success, Iran continued pursuing destabilizing activities.
The letter expressed appreciation for Congressional support while making clear that further military action remains possible if threats continue.
Iran’s Retaliation Expands the Conflict
Following Operation Epic Fury, Iran launched ballistic missiles and drones targeting US assets and allied locations across the region, including:
Israel
Bahrain
Kuwait
Qatar
United Arab Emirates
Jordan
Iran’s response has significantly widened the conflict, raising fears of a broader regional war. Several projectiles were reportedly intercepted, but the escalation has heightened risks for civilians, expatriates, and global markets.
Growing Risk of Regional War
World leaders and international organizations are urging immediate de-escalation. Diplomatic efforts are underway, but active hostilities continue.
Security analysts warn that continued exchanges between the US and Iran could disrupt global oil markets, impact shipping routes, and further destabilize the Middle East.
President Trump stated that while the United States seeks “quick and enduring peace,” US forces remain prepared for additional action if necessary. He added that operations would continue as appropriate to ensure Iran ceases posing threats to the US and its allies.
Global Implications of Operation Epic Fury
The impact of Operation Epic Fury extends beyond the battlefield:
Oil Prices: Any disruption in the Strait of Hormuz could push crude prices sharply higher.
Global Markets: Stock markets may experience volatility amid geopolitical uncertainty.
Diplomatic Fallout: Relations between Washington and Tehran are now at one of their lowest points in recent years.
Regional Stability: Gulf nations are on high alert as missile threats continue.
Defense experts note that the coming days will be critical in determining whether this conflict remains contained or escalates into a prolonged confrontation.
Conclusion
Operation Epic Fury marks a significant escalation in US-Iran tensions. President Donald Trump’s formal notification to Congress underscores the seriousness of the military action and its strategic intent. While the US administration maintains that the strikes were defensive and necessary, Iran’s retaliation signals a dangerous new phase in the conflict.
With missiles launched, alliances tested, and global markets watching closely, the world now waits to see whether diplomacy can prevail — or whether Operation Epic Fury becomes the beginning of a wider regional war.