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US and Israel Launch Major Combat Operations Against Iran
Experts warn that a war without clear, achievable goals risks escalating the conflict into a protracted and destabilizing regional war.
Published on Mar. 2, 2026
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The United States and Israel have initiated 'major combat operations' against Iran, a move described as 'Operation Epic Fury.' While President Trump has articulated objectives - eliminating imminent threats, dismantling Iran's nuclear program, and crippling its ballistic missile capabilities - experts warn that a multiplicity of goals, without a defined endgame, risks escalating the conflict into a protracted and destabilizing war. The situation is further complicated by Iran's immediate retaliatory strikes against Israel and US bases.
Why it matters
The lack of a clear, concise objective creates a 'recipe for confusion' that could lead to mission creep, prolonged engagement, and a failure to achieve any meaningful outcome. The conflict is already triggering a ripple effect across the Middle East, raising the specter of a wider regional war and potentially drawing in other actors. A prolonged conflict with Iran will also have domestic implications in the US, including increased security measures, economic disruption, and potential social unrest.
The details
The initial strikes, including those targeting Iran's nuclear facilities, have already had limited success. Analysts note that while previous attacks have set back Iran's nuclear program, they haven't eliminated it, and the capacity to rebuild exists. This suggests that simply destroying facilities isn't a sustainable solution. Experts also caution against underestimating the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its ability to operate even under duress, warning that a weakened regime may still lead to a prolonged insurgency or proxy conflict.
- The US and Israel launched Operation Epic Fury on Saturday morning, February 28, 2026.
The players
President Trump
The President of the United States who has articulated the objectives of the military operations against Iran.
Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)
The elite military force of Iran that experts warn may continue to operate effectively even if the Iranian regime is weakened.
What they’re saying
“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”
— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.
