Story perspectives

U.S.-Israel Strikes 2,000 Iranian Targets; Iran Retaliates

3/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. and Israel's Operation Epic Fury escalated, striking more than 2,000 Iranian targets, including key military assets.
U.S. Central Command confirmed the first deployment of LUCAS drones, modeled after Iranian designs.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the operation aims to dismantle Iran's missile capabilities and prevent nuclear proliferation.
Iran retaliated with missile strikes across the Gulf, affecting markets and prompting evacuations of U.S. citizens from Middle Eastern countries.

History

Historical Context

The Gulf War began on August 2, 1990, when Iraq, led by Saddam Hussein, invaded Kuwait, claiming economic grievances and territorial rights. The U.S. led a 34-nation coalition in Operation Desert Storm from January 17 to February 28, 1991, conducting over 100,000 sorties and liberating Kuwait. The conflict's aftermath heightened regional tensions and influenced global oil markets, echoing today's military actions against Iran.

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Story summary

The U.S. and Israel's Operation Epic Fury escalated, striking more than 2,000 Iranian targets, including key military assets.
U.S. Central Command confirmed the first deployment of LUCAS drones, modeled after Iranian designs.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the operation aims to dismantle Iran's missile capabilities and prevent nuclear proliferation.
Iran retaliated with missile strikes across the Gulf, affecting markets and prompting evacuations of U.S. citizens from Middle Eastern countries.

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