US and Israel have launched "Operation Epic Fury," an unprecedented military campaign targeting Iran's leadership and military infrastructure. Over 2,000 targets have been struck within 100 hours, including the facility where Iran's Assembly of Experts meets to elect a new Supreme Leader, with claims of Israel aiming to prevent a new Ayatollah. Amid reports of Israel assassinating Ayatollah Khamenei and targeting key figures, the US has deployed advanced F-22 fighter jets to Israel and prioritized its ally for interceptor missile stockpiles. While some sources suggest Israel "forced" the US's hand into this conflict, others indicate the US joined as a coordinating partner to manage escalation and protect its own regional economic interests. This offensive follows the collapse of the November 2024 ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah and is seen by many as primarily driven by Israel's long-standing push for conflict with Iran.
US and Israel have launched joint military strikes targeting Iran's leadership and infrastructure, amidst a high-stakes regional environment marked by a collapsed ceasefire. There is significant disagreement among sources regarding the impetus for US involvement, with some claiming Israel forced America's hand while others emphasize the US acted as a coordinating partner for its own strategic and economic interests. Additionally, the reported assassination of Ayatollah Khamenei is disputed by Iranian officials.
Agreed-upon facts
Confirmed joint military actions and US support for Israel
Where narratives collide
Conflicting accounts on who drove US involvement in the Iran conflict
Disputed fate of Ayatollah Khamenei
Where sources say this may head next
No explicit forward-looking claims were separated for this cluster.
.jpg&width=160)
