Analysis & Reports

USS Tripoli and 2,200 Marines are deploying to the Middle East to reinforce Operation Epic Fury against Iran. The USS Tripoli, equipped with F-35B Lightning II jets, is currently near the Malacca Strait. This deployment is part of a larger military presence in the region, with approximately 50,000 U.S. troops already engaged in operations related to rising tensions with Iran.

Operation Epic Fury has resulted in the destruction of several Iranian aircraft, including the F-14 Tomcat fleet and Khamenei's personal Airbus A340 at Mehrabad Airport in March 2026. The Iranian Air Force is now at its lowest operational capacity, with significant losses impacting its ability to conduct aerial warfare. The ongoing strikes signal the end of Iran's air power as a regional threat.

Iran launched a significant attack on Gulf Cooperation Council member states from March 17 to 19, 2026, deploying 314 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,672 drones, primarily targeting the United Arab Emirates. The strikes severely damaged critical energy infrastructure in Qatar, prompting Gulf states to seek emergency military assistance from allies. Concurrently, Hezbollah escalated tensions by launching missiles at Israel, further complicating the regional security landscape.

Ahmed Al-RashidSat Mar 21 2026Loading...

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched the 71st wave of the 'True Commitment-4' operation on March 21, attacking areas in Tel Aviv and Rishon Lezion with Imad and Qader missiles, as well as drones. U.S. military bases in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq were also targeted. The operation involved new tactics and modernized combat systems.

Israeli Defense Minister Katz announced that Israel and the United States will significantly increase military strikes against Iran's infrastructure next week. Katz emphasized Israel's determination to lead military actions against Iran, aiming to disrupt its command structure and strategic capabilities. He stated that operations will continue until all objectives are met, while President Trump noted that the U.S. is nearing its goals concerning Iran's military actions.

The Natanz nuclear facility in Iran was attacked by U.S. and Israeli forces on the 21st of the month, marking the second assault since the war began. The Iranian Atomic Energy Organization reported no radioactive leakage following the attack. The facility is located 220 kilometers southeast of Tehran, and the International Atomic Energy Agency is currently investigating the incident.

Israeli Defense Minister Katz announced that Israel and the United States will significantly increase military strikes against Iran next week. This decision reflects a coordinated effort to enhance military operations in the region.

The U.S. military is preparing to deploy approximately 25,000 troops to the Middle East, considering operations to seize Hark Island, a key Iranian oil export hub. Three potential assault methods have been identified: amphibious assault, helicopter insertion, and airborne drop, each carrying significant risks due to Iranian defenses. Experts warn that even if the island is captured, U.S. forces may face ongoing threats and political backlash at home.

A drone struck the headquarters of the Iraqi National Intelligence Service in the Mansour area of Baghdad on March 21, 2023, around 10 AM, resulting in the death of one officer. The incident was marked by an explosion and smoke rising from the vicinity.

Iranian military conducted a drone attack on a military facility located at Ben Gurion Airport in Israel on March 21.

Iran launched attacks on over 55 Israeli military facilities and U.S. bases in the Middle East on March 21, 2023. The U.S. is deploying 3 warships and 2,500 Marines to the region while considering military de-escalation. Israel is targeting Iranian regime officials in Tehran, and the UAE intercepted multiple missiles and drones from Iran. Iran's leadership has rejected ceasefire proposals and demands full war cessation.

Israel and the United States attacked Iran's Natanz uranium enrichment facility on March 21. The Iranian Atomic Energy Organization reported that there were no leaks following the strike.

Iran launched a coordinated assault on Gulf Cooperation Council states, firing 314 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,672 drones since February 28, 2026. The attacks targeted critical energy infrastructure and military installations, resulting in civilian casualties and significant damage. Saudi Arabia faced missile strikes over Riyadh, leading to heightened tensions and warnings from its leadership. The conflict has profound implications for regional security and global energy markets.

Ahmed Al-RashidSat Mar 21 2026Loading...

The U.S. Navy deployed three ships carrying approximately 2,500 Marines to the Middle East, increasing the total U.S. military presence in the region to 50,000. This deployment aims to provide military options for President Trump, particularly concerning the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran has restricted navigation. The U.S. is also contemplating ground troop deployment to secure strategic locations.

The 055-class destroyers Anqing and Dongguan conducted their first joint training exercise at a naval base in the Eastern Theater Command, which included live-fire drills. This marks a significant milestone for the newly commissioned ships as they enhance their operational capabilities.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched the 70th wave of Operation 'True Promise-4' on March 21, 2023, targeting over 55 Israeli military facilities and U.S. bases in the Middle East. The operation involved the use of Ghiam and Imad missiles, drones, and multiple warhead Khorramshahr-4 and Qader missiles. Key locations included Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, Al Dhafra Air Base in the UAE, and Erbil Air Base in Iraq.

U.S. President Trump announced on March 20, 2023, that the U.S. is considering a gradual de-escalation of military actions against Iran. He emphasized that the Strait of Hormuz should be defended by the countries that use it, not the U.S. Trump also stated that while dialogue with Iran is possible, he does not seek a ceasefire as the U.S. aims to weaken Iran's military capabilities.

The U.S. Department of Defense is preparing for a potential deployment of ground troops to Iran, with 2500 Marines and 3 warships being sent to the Middle East. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps has launched military operations against Israeli and U.S. targets. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi emphasized that Iran does not seek conflict with Islamic nations. Additionally, the Israeli Defense Forces reported the death of an Iranian intelligence officer during recent operations.

The U.S. Defense Department is preparing for a potential deployment of ground troops to Iran, with President Trump considering the option. Approximately 2500 Marines and three amphibious assault ships are en route to the Middle East. The Pentagon is developing response plans for various scenarios, including the handling of captured Iranian soldiers. While Trump stated he does not currently plan to send troops, he emphasized that he would not disclose such decisions in advance.

On March 20, 2024, the Israeli Defense Forces conducted airstrikes on military infrastructure in southern Syria, targeting a command post and weapons depot. This action was described by Syria as a violation of international law and an infringement on its sovereignty. In response, Syria condemned the strikes and called for international intervention against Israel's ongoing military actions in the region.