【Iran Crisis】White House: Will take full control of Iran's airspace in the coming hours; Spain has agreed to cooperate with U.S. forces (updating)

U.S. strikes Iran for the sixth day. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated that so far, more than 20 Iranian vessels have been destroyed, including the first use of torpedoes since World War II last night, destroying Iran’s top submarines. Currently, no Iranian ships are sailing in the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz, or the Gulf of Oman.

Jean-Pierre pointed out that U.S. forces have targeted over 2,000 objectives, destroying hundreds of ballistic missiles, launchers, and drones. It is expected that within the next few hours, U.S. control over Iranian airspace will be complete and thorough.

When asked who is giving orders in Iran, Jean-Pierre said intelligence agencies are closely monitoring and paying attention to the situation.

Spain, which initially refused to allow U.S. bases, after Trump’s pressure to cut trade, has agreed to cooperate with the U.S. military, Jean-Pierre said.

Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, Jean-Pierre stated that at the appropriate time, the U.S. Navy will begin escorting oil tankers through the strait.

On increasing ammunition stockpiles, Jean-Pierre said she has not heard the President considering this.

$1 or less — March 4 news====

Hassan Rouhani’s son reportedly elected as the new Supreme Leader. Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps: Blockade of the Strait of Hormuz

Senior clerics responsible for selecting Iran’s next Supreme Leader held a meeting on Tuesday (March 3). Iranian media quoted sources revealing that the late leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s son, Mojtaba Khamenei, is likely elected as the new Supreme Leader. Mojtaba, 56, is Khamenei’s second son and currently commands Iran’s Basij militia.

As the Iran war enters its fifth day, it has become a contest for control of the Strait of Hormuz between the U.S. and Iran. Trump posted on Truth Social: “Effective immediately, I have ordered the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) to provide political risk insurance and guarantees at very reasonable prices for all maritime trade passing through the Gulf region, especially energy. This service will be available to all shipping companies.”

“If necessary, the U.S. Navy will begin escorting oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz as soon as possible. In any case, the U.S. will ensure the free flow of energy to the world. America’s economic and military strength is the strongest on Earth—more actions are coming.”

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps issued a statement: “The IRGC Navy has sent a message to the global shipping network, clearly indicating that the Strait of Hormuz is in a state of war from start to finish, and ships may face risks from missiles or uncontrolled drones; therefore, ships should not transit the area.”

“Given multiple warnings from the IRGC Navy that the Strait of Hormuz is unsafe, over 10 oil tankers ignoring these warnings have been hit by projectiles and caught fire.”

“As is evident, Iran has always pursued a policy of de-escalation, striving to create safety and stability in the Persian Gulf, region, and globally. However, the foolish actions of Trump and Netanyahu have triggered this war, causing regional chaos and disrupting the global economic order.”

“Currently, the entire region of the Strait of Hormuz is under the control of the Iranian Islamic Republic Navy.”

It is worth noting that this significant and strategic action by Iran has caused a sharp rise in global oil prices, impacting economies worldwide—especially the U.S. and EU member states. Energy experts say if this situation continues for three weeks, the global economy could face a severe crisis.

$1 or less — Tuesday news====

Trump: Four main targets in Iran. U.S. Department of Defense: Tens of thousands of missiles fired in two days, including air-launched deep-penetration missiles from the U.S.

President Trump and the U.S. Department of Defense held two press conferences overnight. Trump stated that after the recent destruction of Iran’s nuclear program via “Operation Midnight Strike,” he warned Iran not to attempt reconstruction at different locations, but they ignored these warnings and refused to cease their pursuit of nuclear weapons. Additionally, the regime’s conventional ballistic missile program is rapidly and intensely developing, posing a very clear and significant threat to the U.S. and stationed overseas forces. The regime already possesses missiles capable of striking Europe.

Trump clarified the objectives: first, destroy Iran’s missile capabilities, which will be seen happening every hour, including their ability to produce new missiles, which are quite good.

Second, eliminate their navy; ten ships have already been sunk beneath the sea.

Third, ensure that the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism can never obtain nuclear weapons—never.

Finally, we are ensuring that the Iranian regime cannot continue arming, funding, and commanding its terrorist forces abroad.

Regarding the duration of the conflict, Trump said, “It has far exceeded our expected timeline, but it doesn’t matter how long it takes. Whatever it takes, we will do it,” “From the start, we expected to end their military leadership within four to five weeks, but it was done in about an hour. So we are well ahead of schedule.”

“Some say today that ‘the President wants to finish quickly, too long would be boring,’ but I am not bored. There’s nothing boring about this. If I were bored, I wouldn’t be standing here now, I guarantee you, having gone through everything I have to go through.”

U.S. Department of Defense: Action led by Admiral Cooper

Regarding the Department of Defense briefing, Secretary Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Caine attended.

Caine said that on Saturday, February 28, at 01:15 EST (09:45 Tehran time), under the order of the U.S. President, U.S. Central Command, commanded by U.S. Navy Admiral Brad Cooper, began executing “Operation Epic Fury.”

“This deployment involves thousands of service members from all branches, hundreds of advanced fourth- and fifth-generation fighters, dozens of aerial refueling aircraft, the Lincoln and Ford carrier strike groups and their carrier air wings, ongoing ammunition and fuel resupply, all supported by command, control, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance networks, with troop movements still continuing today.”

“The Ford Carrier Strike Group has redeployed across the Atlantic to establish the theater, integrating reserve and National Guard units, including the Wisconsin Army National Guard in Kuwait and Iraq, and Air National Guard units from Vermont and Virginia. The Vermont Air National Guard’s 158th Fighter Wing, originally mobilized for ‘Operation Absolute Resolve,’ was assigned to cross the Atlantic with F-35 fighters, not to return home but to support this operation. Similarly, Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve refueling and transport units have been deployed directly from civilian roles to protect the region.”

“As regional tensions escalate, joint forces have heightened protective measures under the Secretary’s orders, carefully redeploying civilians and non-essential personnel to ensure the safety and security of joint forces. By the start of the operation, only necessary forces remain at our bases and in the theater, ready to respond.”

Trump approved the operation last Friday

“The moment the operation began, on Friday, February 27, at 15:38 EST, U.S. Central Command received the final approval order from President Trump. The President said: ‘Operation Epic Fury is authorized. Go, good luck.’”

“The first wave of strikes was launched by Cyber Command and Space Command, providing non-kinetic effects to disrupt, degrade, and block Iran’s communications and response capabilities.”

First 24 hours: 1,000 targets hit

“The war officially began at 01:15 EST, dawn in Tehran. Over 100 aircraft (fighters, refuelers, early warning, electronic warfare, bombers, and drones) launched a synchronized wave. This was a daylight assault triggered by Israel’s military, facilitated by U.S. intelligence. The Navy launched ‘Tomahawk’ cruise missiles against Iran’s naval forces; ground forces launched precision ground-attack weapons. In the first 24 hours, over 1,000 targets were struck. The operation has now been ongoing for about 57 hours.”

“The current focus is systematically targeting Iran’s command and control infrastructure, navy, and ballistic missile bases. We have established ‘local air superiority,’ which not only enhances our forces’ protection but also allows subsequent operations to proceed.”

Tens of thousands of missiles fired over two days, including air-launched deep-penetration missiles from the U.S.

“In the past two days, we have launched tens of thousands of munitions, including B-2 bombers flying from the U.S. mainland, with a 37-hour round trip, delivering precise deep-penetration missiles into underground facilities in southern Iran. Israel also conducted hundreds of independent missions.”

“Defense is equally important. Integrated air defense systems performed flawlessly. Patriot, THAAD, and naval destroyers with anti-ballistic missile capabilities intercepted hundreds of missiles targeting our forces and allies.”

“Threats from suicide drones (One-way attack UAVs) still exist, but our systems are highly effective. Air defense units from Qatar, the UAE, Kuwait, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia have also joined the fight, demonstrating years of cooperation.”

$1 or less — Monday news====

Iran: No negotiations with the U.S. Israel launches new airstrikes, extending conflict to Lebanon

Israel’s Defense Forces announced early March 2 that the Israeli Air Force launched a new large-scale strike on central Tehran, and began targeting Hezbollah positions in Lebanon in response to rocket attacks on Israel. Iran responded by continuing strikes on U.S. military bases across the Middle East, with explosions reported in the UAE, Bahrain’s capital Manama, and Doha.

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council Secretary Ali Larijani stated that Iran will not negotiate with the U.S. He also said the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei is a heavy blow to Iran, and that Israel and the U.S. cannot just walk away after attacking Iran. Iran’s heart has been pierced, and Iran will pierce the enemy’s heart in return. Larijani also said Israel is a small country with limited population and resources, surrounded by hostile Islamic nations, and that Israel hopes to divide Iran. But the Iranian people have united and will never allow the country to be divided.

Iran’s state broadcaster quoted the IRGC statement that Iran’s Air Force launched missile strikes on Ruwais in the UAE, destroying Israel’s deployed “Iron Dome” missile defense system there.

Iraqi Shia militia claimed to have launched drone attacks on U.S. targets at Baghdad Airport.

As the conflict line extends to Lebanon, multiple Middle Eastern media report that Hezbollah senior leader Muhammad Raad was killed in the Israeli attack.

Trump: Khamenei and 3 Americans dead. Fighting continues until objectives are achieved

Trump posted a 6-minute video early Monday (March 2, Hong Kong time), stating that hundreds of targets inside Iran have been struck, nine ships and naval facilities destroyed, Khamenei is dead, three Americans have been killed, and that “the fighting continues vigorously and will continue until all objectives are met.” Trump told The Daily Mail that the war could last four weeks.

According to NBC citing U.S. officials, the targets are Iran’s ballistic missile and nuclear programs, while Israel targets Iran’s political and military leaders. Iran retaliated by launching missiles at U.S. bases in Israel, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan, triggering a chain reaction across the Middle East.

Bloomberg experts estimate that if the Strait of Hormuz is blocked by Iran, Brent crude could surge to $108 per barrel, as one-fifth of global oil shipments pass through this waterway. Brent closed last Friday at $72.48, representing a potential increase of 49%.

President Donald J. Trump provides an update on Operation Epic Fury: pic.twitter.com/Vte8QKpISn

— The White House (@WhiteHouse) March 1, 2026

Below is the full transcript of Trump’s video:

“In the past 36 hours, the U.S. and its allies launched ‘Operation Epic Fury,’ one of the largest, most complex, and most overwhelming military offensives ever seen in the world. No one has ever seen anything like this.”

Part 1: Results of the strikes:

“We have struck hundreds of targets inside Iran, including Revolutionary Guard facilities and Iran’s air defense systems. Just now, we announced the destruction of nine ships and their naval facilities. All of this happened within minutes.”

Part 2: The current situation of the regime:

“Iran’s former Supreme Leader Khamenei has died. This man’s hands are stained with the blood of hundreds, even thousands of Americans, and responsible for the slaughter of countless innocent civilians in many countries. Last night, across Iran, when the news of his death was announced, the Iranian people cheered and celebrated in the streets.”

“The entire military command system has collapsed. Many want to surrender to save their lives. They want immunity; thousands are calling to surrender. The fighting is ongoing with full force, and it will continue until all our objectives are achieved. We have very clear and strong goals. They could have taken action two weeks ago (referring to negotiations), but they simply couldn’t.”

Part 3: Possible more casualties:

“Earlier today, CENTCOM announced that three U.S. service members have been killed in action. As a nation, we mourn these true American patriots who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. While we continue this righteous mission they gave their lives for, we pray for the wounded to recover fully and extend our deepest love and gratitude to the families of the fallen.”

“Regrettably, there may be more casualties before it’s over. That’s the reality. There could be more, but we will do everything possible to prevent this. But America will avenge their deaths and strike terrorists who are essentially waging war against civilization itself. They have declared war on civilization. Our resolve, and Israel’s, has never been stronger.”

Part 4: Declaring strong national defense:

“America is once again the wealthiest and most powerful nation on Earth, far ahead. But the only reason we enjoy our current standard of living, freedom, and security is because we did what others could not. Because we have brave warriors willing to stand up and even sacrifice their lives to fight the enemy. And they are better at fighting than anyone else.”

“A regime with long-range missiles and nuclear weapons would be a terrifying threat to every American. We cannot allow a country that harbors terrorists to have such weapons, which would enable them to blackmail the world with their evil will. We will not let this happen. We will not let this happen to us or to others.”

“America has the most powerful military in history. I rebuilt our military during my first term. Never before have we had such military strength. Frankly, no one can match it. But now we are using this force for good, for noble purposes.”

“We are undertaking this large-scale operation not only to ensure our safety in this era and region but also for our future generations, just as our ancestors did for us many years ago. It is the duty and burden of a free nation. These actions are right and necessary to ensure Americans never face a regime armed with nuclear weapons and bloodthirsty radical terrorists.”

“For nearly 50 years, these evil extremists have attacked America, shouting ‘Death to America’ or ‘Death to Israel,’ sometimes both. They are the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism. We are the greatest and strongest nation in the world, so we can take action against them. These intolerable threats will no longer continue.”

Part 5: Call for Iran’s military to surrender:

“I once again urge the Revolutionary Guard, the Iranian military, and police to lay down their arms and accept full immunity, or face inevitable death. That’s a dead end, and the outcome will not be good.”

“I call on all patriotic Iranians who desire freedom to seize this historic moment. Be brave, be bold, show heroism, and take back your country! America stands with you. I made a promise to you, and I have kept that promise. The rest is up to you, but we will be there to help.”

$1 or less — Monday news====

Iran confirms Khamenei is dead. 40 days of national mourning. BBC: His daughter and son-in-law have also died. Market risk sentiment declines, Bitcoin rebounds

U.S. President Trump announced early this morning on Truth Social that Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei has died. Major media outlets like BBC, CNN, NBC quickly reposted the news, and photos allegedly showing Khamenei’s body held by Israel circulated. Iran’s Fars News Agency, affiliated with the IRGC, citing “insiders,” reported that Trump’s claim is “baseless.” Around 9:40 Hong Kong time, Iran’s state TV announced Khamenei’s death, declaring 40 days of national mourning, calling him “Leader of the Islamic Revolution.”

The 86-year-old Supreme Leader has ruled Iran for over 36 years since 1989, serving as the second Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic.

Satellite images show an attack on a building in Tehran associated with Khamenei. BBC quoted Fars News Agency, citing “insiders” from the Supreme Leader’s office, that Khamenei’s daughter, son-in-law, and granddaughter were killed in the attack. Fars also reported that “a daughter-in-law of Khamenei” was reportedly killed.

Earlier rumors about Khamenei’s daughter-in-law and son-in-law’s deaths circulated but were later denied.

The U.S. has launched further attacks on hundreds of targets inside Iran. Israel’s Defense Forces also launched a new round of strikes on Iran’s ballistic missile arrays and air defense systems.

[Click to enlarge images]

Trump said, “Many IRGC, military, and police units no longer want to fight and are seeking amnesty. ‘Now they can be pardoned, but later they will have only death,’ hoping that the IRGC and police will peacefully merge with patriotic Iranians, working together to restore the country’s greatness. This process should start very soon because not only has Khamenei died, but the country has been severely destroyed and even wiped out in just one day. However, intensive and precise bombing will continue nonstop for the entire week or as needed until our goals are achieved: peace across the Middle East and the world!”

The White House released images of Trump supervising U.S. military operations in Iran, called “Operation Epic Fury.”

[Click to enlarge images]

Market risk aversion has decreased. Bitcoin (BTC) rebounded 2.2% over the past 24 hours to $67,098, reflecting the relative decline of the dollar. The world’s largest gold-backed stablecoin, Tether Gold (XAUT), rose slightly by 0.8%, to $5,313.

Iran retaliated by hitting the Sailboat Hotel in Dubai with drones; footage shows the hotel on fire, and attack weapons appeared in the sky over Dubai, reportedly intercepted by air defenses. In Israel, a residential building was hit, with reports of one death.

[Click to enlarge images]

$1 or less — Saturday report====

U.S. and Iran failed to reach an agreement last week. On Saturday (28th), the U.S. and Israel launched strikes on Tehran, with multiple explosions reported. President Trump later confirmed that the U.S. had launched “major combat operations” inside Iran.

According to Fars News Agency, targets included U.S. bases in Kuwait, UAE, Qatar, and Bahrain. AFP reported explosions in Riyadh (Saudi Arabia), Manama (Bahrain), and Doha (Qatar).

Bahrain confirmed that the U.S. Fifth Fleet was attacked in Manama. Bahrain’s official news agency issued a brief statement: “The Fifth Fleet service center was hit by missiles.”

UAE’s Ministry of Defense confirmed that it was struck by Iranian ballistic missiles; air defenses successfully intercepted “several” missiles. An attack on a residential area in Abu Dhabi caused property damage and resulted in one Asian death.

Videos of explosions in Juffair, Bahrain, home to the U.S. Fifth Fleet headquarters.

Explosions hit Juffair, Bahrain, home to the US Fifth Fleet headquarters. pic.twitter.com/YjXTCeykOY

— Josep Goded (@josepgoded) February 28, 2026

Trump’s firm stance: Iran’s regime must not have nuclear weapons

Trump posted a video on Truth Social: “Our goal is to eliminate the imminent threat posed by the Iranian regime to protect the American people. The Iranian regime is a very stubborn, terrible bunch of thugs.”

He emphasized that the U.S. will maintain its consistent policy, especially during his administration, that Iran must never possess nuclear weapons.

Over the past 47 years, the Iranian regime has shouted ‘Death to America,’ launched one bloody massacre after another, and targeted the U.S., our forces, and countless innocent civilians in many countries.

Imagine if this regime ever truly obtained and deployed nuclear weapons to send their message—how reckless they would become.

Trump called on the Iranian people: “Tonight is your moment of freedom. Stay in shelters, do not leave your homes; it’s very dangerous outside, bombs are falling everywhere.” Trump said that after completing the operation, taking over the local government would be the government of the Iranian people.

[End of translation]