Trump ‘Not Happy’ With Iranian Leader; Hegseth Details Successes Of Operation

President Donald Trump voiced strong criticism of Iran’s decision to elevate Mojtaba Khamenei as supreme leader following the death of his father, Ali Khamenei, who was reportedly killed in an airstrike at the outset of Operation Epic Fury. Trump questioned whether the new leader could maintain stability, suggesting the situation would remain volatile.

He also claimed that early results from joint U.S. and Israeli operations in Iran had exceeded expectations. In a statement on Truth Social, Trump warned that any Iranian attempt to disrupt oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz would trigger a response “twenty times harder.” While emphasizing U.S. military strength, he added that he hoped escalation could still be avoided.

Operation Epic Fury, launched on February 28, has reportedly targeted thousands of sites, including military command centers, missile facilities, and naval assets tied to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. U.S. officials say the campaign has significantly weakened Iran’s military capabilities, particularly its missile production and air defense systems.

According to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, the strikes have reduced Iran’s ability to launch attacks, with reported declines in missile and drone activity. He described the campaign as a decisive effort to counter long-standing threats and limit Iran’s military reach.

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