'No one is immune...': IDF's Effie Defrin says precision op wiped out 40 Iranian leaders in seconds

The Economic TimesAbout 5 min readMar 2, 2026Watch original
THE SUMMARYAI-generated

Key Concepts

  • Operation Epic Fury: A large-scale military offensive led by the United States against Iran.
  • IDF Strikes: Extensive Israeli Defense Forces airstrikes targeting Iranian infrastructure, including headquarters, missile launch sites, and defense systems.
  • Home Front Command Instructions: Directives issued to Israeli citizens regarding shelter protocols and safety measures.
  • Hezbollah Threat: Potential for escalation involving Hezbollah in Lebanon and Israel’s preparedness to respond.
  • Regime Change/Elimination of Threat: Stated objectives of the operation, including neutralizing the Iranian missile threat and potentially altering the Iranian regime.
  • Defensive Action (UK): The United Kingdom’s decision to allow the US to use British bases for defensive purposes related to missile strikes, while remaining uninvolved in offensive action.

IDF Spokesperson Statement Analysis – Operation Against Iran

Initial Strikes & Infrastructure Dismantling

The operation commenced with the elimination of key leaders within the Iranian “terror regime.” Following this initial strike, the IDF is systematically dismantling the regime’s core infrastructure, aiming to inflict significant damage. A large-scale aerial assault was conducted across Tehran by over 100 Air Force fighter jets, targeting key headquarters. The spokesperson emphasized the IDF’s ability to reach targets “in headquarters, in bunkers, and anywhere else,” asserting that “no one is immune.” Specific targets included the emergency headquarters of the intelligence directorate (responsible for operational and intelligence efforts against Israel), the regime’s operations division headquarters, and the main headquarters of the Iranian air force, housing the ballistic missile and UAV commands. These headquarters were described as “the beating heart” of Iran’s terror operations for decades.

Expanding Targets & Missile Site Neutralization

Beyond these initial targets, the IDF also struck the headquarters of “Terala,” the regime’s internal security apparatus, responsible for suppressing dissent and civilian casualties during protests. Currently, hundreds of Air Force aircraft are actively operating in Iranian airspace, identifying and striking missile launch sites. Approximately 60 launch sites, each capable of launching “dozens of missiles,” have been targeted. The focus is on the regime’s central systems: ballistic missiles, military capabilities, air defense systems (surface-to-air missiles), and command and control centers. The success of these strikes is attributed to the initial phase of the operation, which “cleared a strategic path to Tehran,” facilitated by cooperation with the United States military.

Force Build-up & Regional Preparedness

To bolster defense, approximately 100,000 additional personnel have been recruited to strengthen security along all borders. Particular attention is being paid to Hezbollah in Lebanon, with a firm warning: “If anyone dares to harm the citizens of the state of Israel within the state of Israel, we will strike and respond with great force.” The spokesperson expressed condolences to families affected by the conflict and affirmed the IDF’s commitment to investigating incidents and minimizing casualties.

Public Safety & Resilience

The spokesperson commended the composure and resilience of Israeli citizens, acknowledging their anxieties and concerns. Emphasis was placed on adhering to the instructions of the Home Front Command, stating that these guidelines “save many lives and reduce casualties.” The public’s resilience was described as a “tailwind” and “the secret of our strength.”

Q&A Session – Clarifying Objectives & Timelines

  • Shelter Instructions: The spokesperson unequivocally affirmed the continued validity of the Home Front Command’s instructions to remain in shelters, stating, “Of course. Yes. Of course. Yes.”
  • Operational Timeline: When questioned about the timeframe for achieving objectives (eliminating the missile threat and potential regime change), the spokesperson stated that the operation is only in its second day and will continue “until our objectives are achieved and as long as it takes.”
  • Negotiations & Existential Threat: Regarding potential negotiations initiated by Donald Trump, the spokesperson maintained that a “severe blow” has been dealt to the Iranian regime and that operations will continue as needed.
  • Nuclear Sites: The spokesperson declined to comment on why nuclear sites have not been targeted, citing operational security and refusing to disclose future plans.
  • Hezbollah Activity: The IDF is “alert and prepared” for potential Hezbollah activity and is prepared to respond forcefully.

United States & United Kingdom Perspective

Operation Epic Fury – US Assessment

The United States launched “Operation Epic Fury,” described as one of the largest and most complex military offensives in history. Initial reports indicate the destruction of nine Iranian naval ships and their associated facilities. Ayatollah Hamei, the Supreme Leader of Iran, is reported to be dead, with many members of the military command seeking surrender. A call was issued to Iranian patriots to “seize this moment” and “take back your country,” with assurances of American support.

Iranian Aggression & Regional Instability

The US highlighted Iran’s recent attacks on countries that did not initiate hostilities, including strikes on airports and hotels housing British citizens. This activity is deemed “dangerous” and poses a risk to US armed forces in the region. The death of the Supreme Leader is not expected to halt Iranian aggression, which is described as becoming “more reckless and more dangerous to civilians.”

UK’s Defensive Role & Lessons Learned

The United Kingdom deliberately chose not to participate in the initial strikes on Iran. However, Iran’s actions continue to threaten British interests and citizens. The UK has agreed to allow the US to use British bases for a “specific and limited defensive purpose” – to destroy Iranian missiles at their source. The UK emphasized its commitment to avoiding the “mistakes of Iraq” and will not engage in offensive action.

Logical Connections & Synthesis

The statements from both the IDF spokesperson and the US/UK perspectives demonstrate a coordinated, multi-faceted response to perceived Iranian aggression. The IDF’s strikes are presented as a direct response to Iranian threats and a systematic dismantling of Iran’s ability to project power. The US-led “Operation Epic Fury” aims for a more decisive outcome, potentially including regime change. The UK’s decision to provide limited defensive support reflects a cautious approach, informed by past experiences, while still addressing the immediate threat to its interests.

The overarching message is one of resolve and determination to neutralize the Iranian threat, with a clear warning to Hezbollah and a commitment to protecting citizens. The emphasis on public resilience and adherence to safety guidelines underscores the gravity of the situation and the potential for prolonged conflict. The operation is still in its early stages, and the long-term consequences remain uncertain, but the initial actions signal a significant escalation in tensions and a commitment to achieving stated objectives, “as long as it takes.”

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