Operation Epic Fury

Operation Epic Fury refers to the recent conflict between the United States and Iran, which has resulted in substantial US military losses. A Congressional Budget Office report indicates at least 81 US aircraft, valued up to $3.3 billion, were lost or damaged. The Pentagon's Inspector General has released initial reports detailing damage to American aircraft, bases, and diplomatic outposts, as well as advanced weapons shortfalls. The conflict has led to significant casualties, with over 600 US service members injured since February, 417 of whom were attributed to Operation Epic Fury. Democrats are demanding answers regarding the treatment of wounded troops following a drone strike in Kuwait. While a ceasefire was agreed upon in April and a Memorandum of Understanding signed in June, renewed fighting has occurred, leading to new casualty categories being established by the Pentagon. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has denied nuclear ambitions and blamed the US for the conflict, while US President Trump has expressed optimism about de-escalation talks amidst a lull in strikes.