Iran launched missile and drone attacks on the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet in Manama Operation Epic Fury, have escalated tensions and disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has launched a series of missile and drone attacks on the United States Navy’s Fifth Fleet headquarters in the Juffair District of Manama, reportedly killing 21 soldiers, according to the Tehran Times. Retaliation for Operation Epic FuryIran described the strikes as precise retaliation for a recent U.S.-Israeli operation known as Operation Epic Fury, which targeted senior Iranian leadership. Strategic Importance of the Fifth FleetThe Fifth Fleet oversees roughly 2.5 million square miles of maritime territory, including the Persian Gulf, the Red Sea, and the Arabian Sea. Strait of Hormuz: Flashpoint in the ConflictThe Strait of Hormuz has emerged as a central hotspot.

Source: dna March 08, 2026 13:31 UTC