In a significant escalation of tensions, the United States military has confirmed it struck Iran's largest naval warship, the IRIS Shahid Bagheri, as part of the newly launched 'Operation Epic Fury.' The action comes in direct response to Iranian drone attacks targeting US military bases and Gulf allies following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
US Central Command Rebukes Iranian False Claims
US Central Command issued a strong statement condemning Iranian leadership for spreading misinformation. 'The Iranian regime's false messaging machine continues to falsely claim that it has sunk a US aircraft carrier. The only carrier that has been hit is the Shahid Bagheri, an Iranian drone carrier,' the command declared. The strike was executed within hours of Operation Epic Fury's initiation, highlighting the rapid military response.
Damage to Iranian Naval Power
The damage inflicted on the Shahid Bagheri represents a substantial blow to Iran's naval capabilities. This warship had reportedly been used as a launching platform for drone assaults against US forces and regional allies. The incident underscores the ongoing degradation of Iran's military assets by coordinated US and Israeli operations.
Casualty Claims and Reality
Iran has propagated false narratives regarding casualties, asserting that hundreds of US troops were killed in retaliatory strikes. However, US Central Command has provided verified figures, stating that four service members have died and eighteen others were injured as a result of Iranian attacks. This discrepancy highlights Tehran's use of disinformation in the conflict.
Trump Warns of Prolonged Conflict
In an exclusive interview with the Daily Mail, former President Donald Trump cautioned Americans to prepare for continued violence. He warned that the conflict could persist for up to four weeks, stating, 'It's always been a four-week process. We figured it will be four weeks or so. It's always been about a four-week process so - as strong as it is, it's a big country, it'll take four weeks - or less.' His comments suggest a grim outlook for the immediate future.
The strike on the Shahid Bagheri marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing hostilities, demonstrating the US military's readiness to counter Iranian aggression directly. As Operation Epic Fury unfolds, further developments are anticipated in this volatile regional confrontation.
