Analysis & Reports

On March 7, Qatar intercepted 6 ballistic missiles and 2 cruise missiles during an attack involving 10 ballistic missiles and 2 cruise missiles. The missiles landed in Qatar's territorial waters and open areas, but no casualties were reported. The incident was confirmed by the Qatar Defense Ministry.

Iran claims to have captured several U.S. soldiers in Tehran on March 7, 2023, while the U.S. Central Command denies these claims, asserting that the soldiers are deceased. The Iranian official stated that the truth would not be concealed despite U.S. efforts. The U.S. military spokesperson described the Iranian claims as lies.

Six U.S. service members killed in an Iranian drone strike were returned to Dover Air Force Base during a solemn ceremony. President Trump vowed to minimize further American casualties while escalating military actions against Iran. The attack marked the first U.S. casualties in Operation Epic Fury, as American and Israeli forces continued their bombardment of Iranian targets.

Iran's Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, Larijani, stated that the country's missile reserves are adequate and ready for combat, refuting claims of their destruction. He emphasized that ongoing missile attacks on the U.S. and Israel demonstrate this capability. Larijani warned that both nations would face severe consequences for any actions against Iran's leadership.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) conducted military operations on the evening of the 7th, launching drone and missile strikes against U.S. and Israeli military targets. The IRGC reported shooting down 13 drones and attacking a U.S.-flagged oil tanker in the Persian Gulf. Additionally, missiles were fired at the Haifa oil refinery in response to prior attacks on Iranian facilities. Israeli forces retaliated with airstrikes on military targets in Tehran.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu announced on March 7 that Israel will continue its full-scale campaign against Iran, implementing a detailed plan aimed at weakening the Iranian regime. He urged the Lebanese government to enforce a ceasefire and disarm Hezbollah, warning that the group's aggressive actions could result in catastrophic consequences for Lebanon.

Twelve F-22 Raptors from Ovda Air Base conducted airstrikes over Iran on January 14, 2026. The aircraft are equipped with new stealth fuel tanks as part of an $11 billion upgrade package, enhancing their combat range and radar evasion capabilities. This deployment marks the F-22's first operational use in Israel, contributing to air superiority in the region.

Israeli forces attacked multiple fuel storage facilities in Tehran on March 7 at 22:33 local time, aiming to weaken Iranian military infrastructure. The Israeli Defense Forces stated that these facilities are frequently used by the Iranian military to support operations. Reports indicated intense explosions in the area, reflecting the impact of the strikes.

On March 7, 2023, U.S. military forces reported sinking 42 Iranian naval vessels within three days. The U.S. embassy in Baghdad was attacked by rockets, prompting a response from Iraqi security forces. Iran retaliated with missile strikes on U.S. positions in Bahrain and announced an upcoming leadership election. Israel also conducted airstrikes targeting Iranian military assets in Tehran.

Israeli forces conducted an airstrike on a hotel in Beirut early on the 8th, resulting in 3 deaths and multiple injuries.

Israeli Defense Forces are intercepting missiles launched from Iran. This action was reported early on March 8, indicating an active military response to the missile threat.

Since February 28, 2023, U.S. and Israeli airstrikes in Isfahan Province have resulted in 63 deaths, including women and children. On the same day, the Israeli Defense Forces announced new attacks targeting Tehran and Isfahan. The report underscores the significant civilian impact of these military operations.

John R. Bolton emphasizes the need for a comprehensive strategy for regime change in Iran, combining military action with political support. The U.S. military has achieved initial successes, but political decisiveness and public support are critical for sustained efforts. Bolton advocates for engaging allies and supporting Iran's opposition to facilitate a transition away from the current regime.

Israel conducted over 3400 airstrikes against Iran, dropping 7500 bombs in the past week. Iran launched 600 missile strikes and 2600 drone operations targeting US and Israeli assets. Explosions were reported in Iraq, UAE, and Lebanon due to ongoing military actions. US President Trump stated that 42 Iranian vessels were sunk in recent operations, while Iran's President declared that unconditional surrender is not an option.

U.S. officials reported that Iran's Shahed-136 drones have demonstrated greater destructive capabilities than previously anticipated. Senior military leaders highlighted vulnerabilities in U.S. anti-drone technology, indicating that current defense plans in the Middle East are insufficient. The Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has launched thousands of drones at U.S. bases, with some successfully hitting targets despite interception efforts.

Debris from an aerial interception operation fell onto the exterior of a tower in Dubai's port area on the evening of the 7th. Local authorities have managed the incident, and no casualties were reported.

Hundreds of Cypriots protested in Nicosia on March 7, demanding the removal of British military bases from Cyprus. The demonstrators held banners with slogans such as 'Cyprus is not your launch pad' and 'British bases get out,' urging the Cypriot government to avoid involvement in Middle Eastern conflicts.

Iranian Armed Forces conducted missile strikes against Israeli targets in Tel Aviv and Haifa early on the 8th, utilizing Hezbollah Shekan, Imad, and Qader missiles. The strikes were reported to be successful due to the prior destruction of Israeli radar systems. Additionally, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps retaliated against a U.S. base in Bahrain following an attack on Iranian facilities, employing precision-guided missiles and drones.

Israeli Defense Forces bombed several fuel storage facilities in Tehran late on March 7. The facilities were reportedly used by the Iranian military, and the attack is claimed to further degrade Iran's military infrastructure.

An Israeli airstrike targeted Shilbet Salem in the Nabatieh Governorate of Lebanon late on the 7th, resulting in 6 fatalities and 5 injuries. The attack was confirmed by the Lebanese Ministry of Health.