Analysis & Reports

The Islamic Republic of Iran Navy suffered significant losses during Operation Epic Fury, with all 11 surface warships destroyed. The Strait of Hormuz has experienced a drastic reduction in shipping traffic due to threats from Iranian forces. Kilo-Class and midget submarines remain a concern for maritime security, prompting the U.S. to initiate Operation Prosperity Guardian to safeguard navigation. President Trump introduced a maritime insurance scheme to support shipping in the region.

On March 4, U.S. Central Command announced the first operational use of the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) in military actions against Iran, enhancing the U.S. military's deep strike capabilities. The PrSM is a new generation ground-to-ground precision strike weapon system with a range exceeding 499 kilometers.

Two Israeli soldiers were injured by anti-tank fire during combat in Southern Lebanon on March 4. The soldiers were evacuated to a hospital for treatment. In response, the Israel Defense Forces have established additional defensive positions and conducted airstrikes and artillery fire in various locations in Lebanon, particularly targeting the town of Shiyam.

The U.S. military conducted operations against Iranian military capabilities in June 2025, resulting in the targeting of over 2,000 sites and a significant reduction in Iranian missile activity. Six U.S. service members were killed, prompting Defense Secretary Hegseth to emphasize the need for decisive action against Iran's nuclear ambitions. The U.S. aims to ensure Iran never acquires nuclear weapons while acknowledging the sacrifices of its personnel.

Iranian Central Command reported that a precision strike against U.S. military targets in Dubai on March 4 resulted in at least 100 U.S. Marines killed. This operation has not elicited a response from U.S. officials.

Iranian National Security Council Secretary Larijani stated that over 500 U.S. military personnel have died due to actions taken by the U.S. and Israel against Iran. This claim was made on March 4, 2023, but remains unverified by independent sources.

U.S. Air Force conducted airstrikes in Iran targeting ballistic missile facilities and command-and-control infrastructure as part of Operation Epic Fury, which began on February 28, 2023. Over 2,000 targets have been hit, including more than 20 Iranian naval vessels. The B-1B Lancer and B-52H Stratofortress bombers were deployed in these operations, establishing local air superiority for U.S. forces.

U.S. Air Force conducted airstrikes in Iran, targeting ballistic missile facilities and command-and-control infrastructure as part of Operation Epic Fury, which began on February 28, 2023. Over 2,000 targets have been hit, utilizing B-1B Lancer and B-52H Stratofortress bombers. These actions have established local air superiority, enhancing the protection of U.S. forces in the region.

Iran's F-14 Tomcat fleet is currently under pressure from U.S.-Israeli air superiority during Operation Epic Fury in March 2026. The fleet, consisting of 41 F-14D/E/RF airframes, has a historical kill ratio of 130-4 from the Iran-Iraq War. Five F-14s were previously destroyed in Israeli airstrikes, but no new losses have been reported in the ongoing conflict.

An Israeli F-35I fighter jet shot down an Iranian Yak-130 over Tehran during a brief air combat on February 28, 2023. This incident marks the first kill of a manned fighter jet by an F-35. The action occurred amid the ongoing 'Epic Fury' military operation, where the Israeli Air Force has conducted extensive airstrikes against military targets in Iran.

An Israeli F-35I fighter jet shot down an Iranian Yak-130 over Tehran during a brief air combat. This incident marks the first kill of a manned fighter jet by an F-35. The engagement occurred amid the ongoing 'Epic Fury' military operation, which involves joint U.S.-Israeli strikes against military targets in Iran. The Israeli Air Force has conducted around 1,600 raids into Iran since the operation began on February 28, 2023.

Operation Epic Fury successfully degraded Iran's nuclear infrastructure and air defenses, resulting in the reported death of Iran’s Supreme Leader. The U.S. Armed Forces neutralized over 200 air-defense systems and destroyed 50% of missile launchers. In retaliation, the Islamic Republic Guard Corps (IRGC) launched over 270 ballistic missiles and drones. Concerns arise over a potential power vacuum and the consolidation of IRGC power in Iran.

U.S. military veterans are experiencing significant mental health challenges, including PTSD and traumatic brain injuries, as highlighted by studies and expert opinions. The perception of stigma remains a major barrier to seeking care. President Trump has indicated that ground troops may be deployed in Iran, raising concerns about the mental health impacts of ongoing military engagements. The VA provides resources for veterans, but many still struggle to find peace after their service in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Iranian officials, including a senior aide to the late Supreme Leader Khamenei, stated that Iran has no intention of negotiating with the U.S. and can continue the conflict indefinitely. They assert that the U.S. seeks to divide Iran rather than occupy it, reflecting a firm stance on military engagement.

Cyprus issued an air safety alert on March 4, 2023, due to a suspicious flying object approaching its airspace. In response, the Greek Air Force scrambled two F-16 fighter jets from Paphos to intercept the object. The alert was triggered around 9:30 AM local time and was lifted by 10 AM. U.S. embassy staff were temporarily relocated for safety.

A container ship was hit by a shell in the Strait of Hormuz on March 4, causing a fire in the engine room. The British Maritime Trade Organization reported the incident, but no environmental impact reports have been received.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched missile and drone strikes against U.S. and Israeli targets on October 4, including over 40 missiles and 230 drones. Attacks were reported in Tehran, Bushehr, and southern cities like Abadan and Shiraz, with significant damage to military and civilian infrastructure. The IRGC confirmed strikes on U.S. naval vessels in the Indian Ocean.

Qatari Armed Forces intercepted 10 drones and 2 cruise missiles launched from Iran on March 4. This action was confirmed by the Qatari Ministry of Defense, indicating a significant military engagement.

U.S. and Israeli military actions have resulted in 1045 Iranian casualties, according to a report by the Tasnim News Agency on March 4, 2023. The casualties are attributed to ongoing military aggression against Iran.

Gulf states authorities issued warnings against sharing footage of Iranian strikes, citing potential legal penalties including fines and imprisonment. On March 3, 2026, Dubai Police cautioned residents and tourists about the risks of spreading such content. Bahrain's Ministry of Interior reported arrests for social media misuse related to these strikes, while Kuwait and Qatar also issued similar advisories to maintain public safety and operational security.