Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Air Force deployed the GBU-72 bomb to destroy Iranian coastal missile stockpiles near the Strait of Hormuz on April 21. This 5,000-pound bunker-buster bomb penetrates deep underground before detonating, maximizing its destructive impact. The operation is part of ongoing efforts to neutralize threats in the region.

The U.S. military has lost 20 aircraft in the Iran war, including 3 F-15E Strike Eagles and 12 drones, with 6 crew members killed in a mid-air collision. An F-35A was damaged by Iranian fire but managed an emergency landing. The operations have led to significant destruction of Iranian naval assets, showcasing the effectiveness of U.S. air campaigns despite tragic incidents of friendly fire.

U.S. and Israeli forces conducted extensive airstrikes against Iranian military targets, destroying over 9,000 assets. In response, Iran has employed fast-attack boats and sea mines to block the Strait of Hormuz, significantly disrupting global oil supply. This situation has led to rising oil prices and economic implications for the U.S. and its allies.

Israeli attacks on Lebanon since March 2 have resulted in 1072 deaths and 2966 injuries, according to the Lebanese health department. The ongoing military actions have significantly impacted the civilian population in the region.

The U.S. Navy is deploying Littoral Combat Ships (LCS) in the Strait of Hormuz to counter the Iranian mine threat. Equipped with advanced technologies like the Airborne Laser Mine Detection System and Barracuda drones, the LCS is crucial for mine countermeasures and coastal surveillance. This operational shift highlights the LCS's evolving role in modern naval warfare, particularly in shallow waters.

The U.S. Department of Defense requested a $200 billion supplemental package to fund Operation Epic Fury against Iran on March 19, 2026. This funding exceeds the total estimated value of Iran's military, which has been severely diminished. The U.S. has already expended over $11 billion in the initial days of the operation, highlighting the financial asymmetry in the conflict. Political challenges regarding this funding are anticipated in Congress, with some lawmakers opposing further expenditures.

The Israeli military conducted airstrikes on fuel stations across Lebanon that were reportedly funding Hezbollah activities on March 24. This operation highlights ongoing military actions against Hezbollah's logistical support.

The U.S. military launched 400 Tomahawk missiles at Iran within the first 72 hours of Operation Epic Fury, highlighting concerns over military readiness and munitions supply. The USS Gerald R. Ford faced operational difficulties, including an extended deployment and maintenance issues. RTX Corporation announced plans to increase Tomahawk production to 1,000 missiles per year, but logistical challenges remain a concern for potential conflicts in the Indo-Pacific.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched the 79th wave of Operation 'True Promise-4' on March 24, 2023, targeting Israeli intelligence and military logistics centers in Tel Aviv, Ramat Gan, Negev, and Beersheba using various missiles and drones.

Iran launched a sustained missile and drone offensive against Gulf Cooperation Council states, targeting critical infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, and Qatar from March 21-22, 2026. Gulf air defense systems intercepted numerous Iranian projectiles, achieving a 90% interception rate. The U.S. responded with a $23 billion arms sale to bolster Gulf defenses amid escalating tensions and Iranian threats to energy facilities. This situation reflects a significant shift in regional military dynamics and strategic calculations.

Ahmed Al-RashidTue Mar 24 2026Loading...

On March 24, 2023, Iranian missiles struck multiple locations in Tel Aviv, injuring six people and causing extensive damage to buildings and vehicles. The attacks resulted in a large crater and the collapse of a wall in one building. Israeli air raid sirens were activated in several cities, indicating a broader threat.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned Israel against continuing attacks on Lebanese and Palestinian civilians, threatening missile and drone strikes in retaliation. The warning was issued on March 24, 2023, citing the attacks as intolerable and promising a strong military response if they persist.

Iran targeted commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf with missiles and drones, resulting in 17 confirmed incidents and at least 11 seafarers dead or unaccounted for between March 1 and March 16, 2023. U.S. President Trump criticized NATO allies for their lack of support in securing the Strait, which is crucial for global trade, as Iran maintains significant military capabilities in the region.

U.S. President Trump criticized NATO allies for their reluctance to secure the Strait of Hormuz, claiming it would be a simple military maneuver. Analysts warn of significant risks due to Iran's military capabilities, including over 1,000 fast attack craft and extensive mine stockpiles. Recent incidents have targeted commercial vessels, resulting in casualties, highlighting the strategic importance of the Strait for global trade.

MKE has developed the MKE TOLGA Short-Range Air Defence System in Turkey to neutralize aerial threats, including drones and cruise missiles. The system was successfully demonstrated during live-fire tests in November 2025, achieving a 100% success rate. Agreements have been signed with Qatar, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia for its export, and future enhancements will include microwave and laser systems.

U.S. and Israeli forces conducted airstrikes on two residential areas in Tabriz, Iran, on March 23, resulting in 6 deaths and 9 injuries. Rescue and medical efforts are currently underway. Another area was also impacted, leading to infrastructure damage without casualties.

U.S. Central Command reported over 9,000 targets struck in Iran, including significant damage to oil infrastructure. Iran retaliated with attacks on Gulf oil facilities and launched cyberattacks. A contingent of U.S. Marines is deploying to the region aboard USS Tripoli. The conflict continues to impact global energy markets and poses strategic challenges in the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps attacked the U.S. Navy's Fifth Fleet base in Bahrain on March 21, 2023, using medium-range missiles. The strike targeted key supply and technical facilities, temporarily incapacitating the fleet's operations. This incident highlights a significant shift in regional power dynamics and poses challenges for U.S. naval operations in the area.

The USS Tripoli Expeditionary Strike Group is set to deploy to operational waters near Iran in the coming days, carrying 2500 Marines and advanced aircraft including F-35s. This movement follows the ship's recent navigation in the Indian Ocean and aims to enhance ground troop deployment capabilities in the region. The USS Tripoli's arrival is expected to significantly alter the battlefield dynamics.

U.S. and Israeli forces attacked energy infrastructure in Isfahan and Khorramshahr, Iran, on March 24, 2023. The gas company building and gas pressure station in Isfahan were damaged, while a gas pipeline at the power plant in Khorramshahr was also targeted, resulting in no casualties.