“Mechanically and logistically, Operation Epic Fury is proceeding on schedule with objectives reportedly being met; matériel stocks and strike tempo remain sustainable in the near-term. The machine pillar echoes this timetable confidence. The principal hazard now stems from the mood pillar: domestic narrative turbulence over the handling of combat deaths. The apparent contradiction—some bereaved families push for decisive victory while at least one publicly denies urging continuation—resolves once we recognise that Hegseth’s statement over-generalised from a subset of supportive voices, whereas media amplified a dissenting father; both can simultaneously be true. This reveals a fragmented public sentiment, not a factual impossibility. Net effect: operational momentum faces moderate reputational and political risk, but no immediate mechanical impediment.”