General Caine confirms 'hundreds of ballistic missiles' stopped, signals 'gritty' fight ahead

PENTAGON: General Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, delivered a somber assessment of the military offensive in Iran on Monday, March 2, informing reporters that the nation should prepare for a sustained and costly conflict.

The chairman confirmed that the American death toll had risen to four after a service member succumbed to injuries sustained during Iran's initial counter-attacks.

"This is not a single, overnight operation," General Caine stated at the Pentagon briefing. He emphasized that the objectives tasked to US Central Command (CENTCOM) would require "difficult and gritty work," and noted with grim transparency, "We expect to take additional losses."

Trump issued 'no abort' order for offensive

General Caine revealed that President Trump had personally issued the "go order" for 'Operation Epic Fury' on Friday at 3.38 pm ET.

The directive was communicated via the secretary of war with specific instructions: "Operation Epic Fury is approved. No aborts. Good luck."

The operation, which launched at 9.45 am local time on Saturday, was a massive joint effort involving the Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard in cooperation with Israel.

Caine noted that the "flow of forces" would "continue today" as additional reinforcements were arriving in the theater.

Air superiority achieved through cyber and space

The chairman reported a significant tactical victory, stating that US and Israeli strikes had already resulted in "local air superiority."

This control of the skies was intended to better protect American personnel and allow for the continued degradation of enemy capabilities.

Caine further detailed that the military was utilizing "continuously layered effects" from cyber and space operations.

These advanced capabilities were being deployed to disrupt, disorient, and confuse Iranian forces as they attempted to respond to the ongoing bombardment.

Hundreds of ballistic missiles intercepted

In addition to offensive gains, US forces successfully neutralized a massive Iranian retaliation effort.

General Caine confirmed that American defenses had intercepted "hundreds of ballistic missiles" targeting the United States and its regional partners.

While these interceptions prevented further large-scale casualties, the chairman reiterated that the military’s work was far from over.

He maintained that the Joint Force was prepared to sustain the mission for as long as necessary to achieve the administration's strategic goals.