United States President Donald Trump authorized Operation Epic Fury against Iran after intelligence assessments indicated that Tehran was preparing to launch ballistic missiles either preemptively or in response to American action, according to a senior United States official. The administration concluded that waiting to be struck first would significantly increase casualties and damage to United States forces and regional allies.

The official said Iran’s growing missile stockpile posed an immediate and intolerable threat, separate from its longer term nuclear ambitions. Washington argued that Iran’s ability to rapidly produce missiles could overwhelm regional defenses, prompting what it described as a preemptive and defensive strike carried out alongside Israel.

The comments signal a shift in emphasis from Iran’s nuclear program to its missile capabilities. The official also accused Tehran of negotiating in bad faith during recent nuclear talks, rejecting offers such as guaranteed civilian nuclear fuel and refusing to discuss its missile program. The operation is expected to continue for weeks as United States and Israeli forces work to suppress remaining Iranian air defenses and limit Tehran’s ability to launch drones, missiles, or naval attacks.