US Claims Major Military Gains in Iran as Conflict Deepens; Tehran Rejects Victory Narrative

Washington DC / Tehran, March 26 (ANI): The United States has claimed significant military success in its ongoing conflict with Iran, with the White House describing recent operations as one of the most extensive naval destructions in modern history. However, Tehran has strongly rejected these claims, asserting that Washington has failed to achieve its core objectives.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that Iran’s missile capabilities have been reduced by approximately 90 percent following the launch of “Operation Epic Fury.” She described the campaign as “the largest elimination of a navy on the face of the planet in a three-week period since World War II.”

According to Leavitt, US forces have destroyed more than 140 Iranian naval vessels, including nearly 50 mine-laying ships. She added that the United States is systematically dismantling Iran’s defence industrial base to prevent future threats, particularly those affecting the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy route.

The operation has also involved heavy airstrikes. Leavitt revealed that US forces recently deployed 5,000-pound bombs on underground facilities used to store anti-ship cruise missiles and mobile launch systems along Iran’s coastline.

Addressing legal concerns, she said formal Congressional authorization is not currently required, as operations are ongoing. She noted that key lawmakers had been briefed in advance and that the mission is expected to conclude within a four-to-six-week timeline.

US President Donald Trump defended the military campaign, calling it a “great military achievement” and accusing political opponents of attempting to undermine its success. He maintained that the operations are aimed at protecting Americans and ensuring long-term regional stability.

Leavitt also suggested that Iran has effectively undergone a leadership shift, stating that much of its leadership has been eliminated and that a new structure has yet to clearly emerge. She added that Washington hopes for a future Iranian leadership more open to cooperation with the United States.

Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance was praised as a key advisor involved in national security decisions throughout the conflict.

Large-Scale US Military Build-Up

The Pentagon has significantly increased its military presence in the region. Approximately 2,500 troops from the elite 82nd Airborne Division are being deployed, alongside additional reinforcements.

These include two Marine Expeditionary Units—one linked to the USS Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group from Japan and another from the USS Boxer Amphibious Ready Group departing San Diego. Combined, these deployments could add 6,000 to 7,000 personnel to the roughly 50,000 US troops already stationed in the Middle East.

This marks one of the largest US military mobilizations in the region since the Iraq War.

While no ground invasion has been officially announced, analysts suggest several possible scenarios under consideration, including securing Iran’s nuclear materials, reopening maritime routes, or targeting strategic locations such as Kharg Island.

Iran Warns of Escalation, Rejects US Claims

Iran has pushed back strongly against Washington’s narrative. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned that intelligence reports indicate enemy plans to seize one of Iran’s islands, possibly with regional support. He stated that any such move would trigger “relentless” retaliation against critical infrastructure.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the United States has failed to secure a decisive victory or achieve regime change, accusing Washington of misrepresenting the situation.

Tehran has also rejected recent US proposals to end the conflict, insisting that any ceasefire will occur only on its own terms. Iranian officials outlined strict conditions, including a halt to military actions, guarantees against future aggression, reparations, and international recognition of Iran’s authority over the Strait of Hormuz.

Despite sustained US and Israeli strikes targeting missile systems and infrastructure, Iran continues to launch retaliatory attacks across the region, including strikes on Israel and Gulf countries.

Stalemate Persists Amid Rising Global Stakes

The conflict has had significant global implications, particularly with the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil transit chokepoint. This has disrupted global energy supplies and contributed to rising oil prices.

While Washington has proposed measures including a ceasefire, nuclear restrictions, and sanctions relief, Tehran has dismissed the terms as unrealistic and disconnected from battlefield realities.

With both sides maintaining sharply opposing positions—and military operations still ongoing—the standoff shows no immediate signs of resolution.

693 words, 4 minutes read time.