The joint U.S.-Israel military operation against Iran, dubbed Operation Epic Fury, reached its fourth day on March 4, 2026. U.S. and Israeli forces have struck nearly 2,000 targets, destroyed 17 Iranian ships and degraded Iranian air defenses, ballistic missiles and drones. Air superiority holds over western Iran and Tehran. Iran has retaliated with drone and missile attacks on U.S. facilities in the region, including a strike that closed the Strait of Hormuz and spiked oil prices.
Six U.S. service members have been killed. Four were identified as Capt. Cody A. Khork of Winter Haven, Fla.; Sgt. 1st Class Noah L. Tietjens of Bellevue, Neb.; Sgt. 1st Class Nicole M. Amor of White Bear Lake, Minn.; and Sgt. Declan J. Coady of West Des Moines, Iowa. They died March 1 in a drone attack at Port Shuaiba, Kuwait. President Trump said more losses are likely.
No official Pentagon cost tally exists. Independent estimates place pre-strike buildup at $630 million and first-day operations at $779 million. Broader U.S. spending tied to regional conflicts since 2023 exceeds $31 billion. Lost equipment, including three F-15 jets, and daily carrier operations add millions more daily. Analysts project tens of billions if fighting lasts weeks.
The Trump administration calls the operation necessary to eliminate nuclear and missile threats. Trump stated the goal is to “defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime.” He added the U.S. will escort tankers to ensure “the FREE FLOW of ENERGY to the WORLD.”
Supporters, including Republican leaders, back the move. House Speaker Mike Johnson said Iran faces “severe consequences of its evil actions.” Sen. Lindsey Graham praised the action as ending “evil and darkness.” Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth called it “100% correct.”
Critics, mostly Democrats, question legality and strategy. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries noted Trump “failed to seek Congressional authorization.” Sen. Bernie Sanders called it “unconstitutional” and warned of “endless wars.” Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez labeled it “unlawful” and “unnecessary.”
The conflict continues with no ground troops planned. Americans are urged to avoid the region.
