Hegseth: ‘Operation Epic Fury’ will be decisive, not endless, as U.S. targets Iranian military capabilities

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that the United States is undertaking a “clear, devastating, and decisive mission” against Iran, stating that the operation known as “Operation Epic Fury” is not the start of yet another long-lasting conflict in the Middle East, but a targeted effort to mitigate what he called an immediate threat to American lives.

In a strong address to the nation, Hegseth asserted that the U.S. would act swiftly against any attacks on Americans globally. “If you kill Americans or threaten them anywhere on the planet, we will pursue you without apology or delay, and we will eliminate you,” he emphasized.

Positioning the military initiative as long overdue, Hegseth credited Donald Trump for establishing “the line after 47 years of Iranian aggression.” He argued that Tehran has consistently disregarded diplomatic solutions, opting instead to use negotiations as a delay tactic.

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“Tehran was not negotiating; they were stalling to replenish their missile stocks and revive their nuclear ambitions,” Hegseth stated. “Their aim? To hold us hostage by threatening to strike our forces.”

The defense secretary described Operation Epic Fury as specifically aimed: “to eliminate Iranian offensive missiles, disrupt their missile production, dismantle their navy and other security structures, and prevent them from acquiring nuclear weapons.” He framed the operation as “surgical, overwhelming, and unapologetic.”

Hegseth also countered critics who warn of another indefinite conflict in the region, dismissing comparisons to past U.S. military engagements. “This is not Iraq. This is not endless. I experienced both,” he noted about the lengthy conflicts following the September 11 attacks. “Our generation knows better, and so does this president. He correctly deemed the last 20 years of nation-building wars as misguided.”

He emphasized that the aim is not regime change or long-term occupation, but rather the eradication of specific military threats. “This is the opposite,” he asserted. “It’s a clear, devastating, decisive mission. Eliminate the missile threat. Dismantle the Navy. No nuclear weapons.”

Reflecting on the loss of four American service members and injuries to others during the initial phase of operations, Hegseth remarked, “War is hell and will always be.” He paid tribute to the four Americans lost and those injured, recognizing them as “the best of America.”

He concluded by pledging that the operation would proceed in their honor, asserting, “We didn’t initiate this war, but under President Trump, we are bringing it to a close.”

As Operation Epic Fury progresses, the administration continues to assert that its objectives are both limited and resolute: to eradicate Iran’s offensive capabilities, discourage future aggression, and ensure that American forces and interests are not threatened.