Operation Epic Fury
The Israel-Iran-US Conflict & Global Stability
Minhaz Samad Chowdhury
Independent Human Rights Defender | Governance & Policy Analyst
The escalation of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East is rapidly eroding the foundations of international law and human dignity. On February 28, 2026, the joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran—dubbed "Operation Epic Fury"—marked a dangerous pivot toward unchecked militarism. Targeting Iran's nuclear facilities, military installations, and leadership compounds, the offensive has triggered swift, devastating retaliation.
This ongoing cycle of violence not only threatens regional stability but undermines global peace, exacerbating humanitarian crises and plunging worldwide economic markets into vulnerability. This analysis draws on principles of human rights and effective governance to highlight the profound implications for our shared future.
⏳ A Legacy of Mistrust
The current crisis is the culmination of decades of failed diplomacy and mutual hostility. Coercive diplomacy backed by military threats has consistently entrenched hardliners, marginalizing advocates for peaceful reform.
1979
Iranian Revolution establishes the Islamic Republic, positioning it in opposition to US and Israeli regional interests.
2015
Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) established, temporarily capping Iran's nuclear activities for sanctions relief.
2018
US withdraws from the JCPOA under President Trump, reigniting hostilities and prompting Iran's nuclear enrichment escalations.
June 2025
A fragile ceasefire ends a 12-day war involving strikes on Iranian nuclear sites like Natanz and Fordow.
Feb 28, 2026
"Operation Epic Fury". Shatters Geneva talks. US/Israel strike Tehran; Iran retaliates across the Gulf.
⚠️ Humanitarian & Economic Fallout
The immediate aftermath of the February 2026 strikes has generated devastating human costs and exposed the severe fragility of global supply chains. As strikes hit civilian centers and critical chokepoints are threatened, the collateral damage mounts.
200+
Fatalities Reported
In initial retaliatory strikes across Gulf bases and civilian areas, risking a massive humanitarian crisis.
20%
Global Oil at Risk
Iran threatens closure of the Strait of Hormuz, the critical artery for a fifth of global petroleum transit.
Projected Energy Market Shock
Potential crude oil price spike per barrel due to Gulf instability and Strait of Hormuz threats.
Geopolitical Polarization
The international response to Operation Epic Fury reflects deep global divisions. These fractures severely weaken multilateral institutions like the UN, making collective security enforcement incredibly difficult and heightening the risk of a protracted, wider war.
International Stance on Escalation
Urging De-escalation (EU, UN)
Caught in the middle, pushing for a return to diplomacy without endorsing the pre-emptive strikes or the violent retaliation.
Supporting Strikes (Australia, Canada)
Aligning with US and Israeli perspectives, viewing the operation as a necessary measure against nuclear proliferation threats.
Condemning Aggression (Russia, China)
Denouncing the attacks as violations of sovereignty, complicating the UN Security Council's ability to act uniformly.
Pathways to Sustainable Peace
Regime change imposed by force rarely yields democratic outcomes. It creates power vacuums and prolonged suffering. To avert catastrophe, these immediate, governance-driven steps are essential:
1. Ceasefire & Diplomacy
UN Security Council must enforce an immediate halt to hostilities and revive negotiations with verifiable safeguards.
2. Humanitarian Aid
Ensure unrestricted access for international organizations to protect civilians and monitor for human rights abuses.
3. Regional Dialogue
Integrate Gulf states, Russia, and China into comprehensive talks addressing proxy conflicts and economic ties.
4. Governance Reforms
Encourage internal reforms in Iran via targeted sanctions relief tied directly to verified human rights improvements.
5. Global Accountability
Strengthen international law by prosecuting human rights violations and reforming UN mechanisms against unilateral actions.
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