U.S. and Israel Ramp Up Military Operations Against Iran

Officials say the speed of the campaign is significantly degrading Iran's military capabilities.

Mar. 11, 2026 at 10:50am

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As the U.S. and Israel continue their military operations against Iran, officials say the speed of the campaign is significantly degrading the regime's military capabilities. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth argues Iran's missile program is being dismantled with 'brutal efficiency,' while some lawmakers warn the conflict could escalate following a classified briefing on possible ground deployments.

Why it matters

The ongoing military operations against Iran are aimed at preventing the regime from developing nuclear weapons and disrupting crucial trade routes. The campaign's impact on Iran's military capabilities is a key factor in the geopolitical tensions between the U.S., Israel, and Iran.

The details

Israel's Ambassador to the U.N., Danny Danon, says the timing of the operation was 'crucial' to prevent Iran from tipping ballistic missiles with nuclear warheads. There are also reports of Iranian mines being laid in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial trade pathway.

  • The U.S. and Israel have been conducting military operations against Iran since early 2026.

The players

Pete Hegseth

U.S. Defense Secretary who argues Iran's missile program is being dismantled with 'brutal efficiency'.

Danny Danon

Israel's Ambassador to the U.N. who says the timing of the operation was 'crucial' to prevent Iran from tipping ballistic missiles with nuclear warheads.

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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 U.S. and Israel are expected to continue their military operations against Iran in the coming weeks and months.

The takeaway

The ongoing military campaign against Iran is a high-stakes geopolitical conflict with significant implications for regional stability and the global economy. The speed and intensity of the operations have significantly degraded Iran's military capabilities, but the risk of further escalation remains.