Operation Epic Fury began after talks in Geneva failed to secure Iranian assurances, prompting U.S. strikes on naval, missile and air-defense targets and a daylight assault aimed at senior leaders. CENTCOM reported that Kuwaiti air defenses mistakenly shot down three U.S. F-15Ds, and Israeli forces opened operations against Hezbollah. At home, Texas Democrats face a consequential primary between James Talarico and Jasmine Crockett, while new observational research links GLP-1 weight-loss drugs to a small increased risk of osteoporosis and gout.
Inside 'Operation Epic Fury' — Iran Strikes, Regional Fallout and a Pivotal Texas Primary
James Talarico and Jasmine Crockett (Getty Images)(Getty Images)
Here’s what to know today: the U.S. launched a major operation against Iranian military and air-defense targets after last-minute talks in Geneva failed to secure Tehran’s promise to forgo actions tied to developing a nuclear weapon. The assault, dubbed Operation Epic Fury, and subsequent regional responses have reshaped the day’s news agenda.
Operation Epic Fury: What Happened
U.S. forces used a mix of B-2 stealth bombers, fighter jets and other munitions to strike Iranian naval units, missile sites, command-and-control centers and air defenses. Intelligence from U.S. and Israeli agencies reportedly placed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei at a morning meeting with senior deputies; according to officials briefed on the operation, commanders shifted the assault into daylight in hopes of targeting him and other senior figures.
President Donald Trump told NBC News the decision followed prolonged negotiations that left him convinced a diplomatic off-ramp was not attainable. As he summarized:
“They weren’t willing to say they will not have a nuclear weapon.”
The Pentagon later reported what it called "apparent friendly fire" that brought down three U.S. F-15D Strike Eagle aircraft over Kuwait; CENTCOM said Kuwait’s air defenses mistakenly shot them down. U.S. military statements also confirmed that three service members were killed during the strikes. In a widening regional conflict, Israel announced offensive operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon.
BSIP / Universal Images Group via Getty Images(BSIP)
Domestic Politics: A Key Texas Primary
Back home, Texas Democrats face a crucial primary between State Rep. James Talarico and Rep. Jasmine Crockett as the party seeks its first statewide victory in decades. Talarico emphasizes cross-partisan outreach to independents and moderates, while Crockett argues she can mobilize disaffected and historically underrepresented voters. Party strategists say the choice between electability approaches will shape the November battlefield.
Health Watch: GLP-1 Drugs and Bone Health
Research presented at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons’ annual meeting flagged a small association between GLP-1 weight-loss drugs (such as Ozempic and Wegovy) and slightly higher rates of osteoporosis and gout. Dr. John Horneff, the study’s lead author, said clinicians noticed unexpected tendon injuries that prompted further investigation. The study is observational and cannot prove causation, but it highlights the importance of diet, exercise and bone-health monitoring for patients on these medications.
Other Notable Developments
- Investigators said the suspect in a Texas bar shooting had a history of mental illness and wore a sweatshirt reading “Property of Allah.” Authorities are exploring possible terrorism links but have not identified a confirmed motive; two people were killed and 14 injured.
- The Supreme Court heard arguments in a gun-rights case challenging a federal law that bars frequent illegal-drug users from possessing firearms.
Spartanburg, S.C., mobile health unit. (Patrick Martin / NBC News)(Patrick Martin)
- Catherine O’Hara was posthumously honored at the Actor Awards with best female actor in a comedy series for her role on “The Studio.”
- A professor’s remarks about Black children, made while a microphone was unintentionally left on, generated widespread controversy in New York.
- Health reporter Erika Edwards described covering measles outbreaks nationwide, highlighting the heavy public-health response and hundreds of millions in costs despite a free, effective vaccine being available.
This briefing synthesizes reporting from U.S. officials, Pentagon statements, independent researchers and regional developments to provide a clear snapshot of the day’s top stories. Originally published on NBCNews.com.
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