Some observers believe that the U.S.–Israeli strikes could dramatically change the Middle East.
Members of the Iranian community and supporters hold signs and pre-regime Iranian flags during a “Solidarity with the People of Iran” event in Los Angeles on Jan. 18, 2026. Apu Gomes/Getty Images
WASHINGTON—At precisely 3:38 p.m. ET on Feb. 27, President Donald Trump was traveling to Texas on Air Force One when he gave the order for American forces to strike Iran.
“Operation Epic Fury is approved. No aborts. Good luck,” Trump told Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.
