Before the recent developments, expectations surrounding the US military’s engagement in Iran were characterized by a cautious approach, reminiscent of past conflicts. The focus was often on prolonged nation-building efforts, as seen during the Bush and Obama administrations. However, the landscape has shifted dramatically with the announcement from Pete Hegseth, the US Defence Secretary.

Decisive Changes in Strategy

On March 10, 2026, Hegseth declared that the US is winning the war in Iran, emphasizing an overwhelming focus on clear objectives. He stated, “Today will be, yet again, our most intense day of strikes inside Iran,” highlighting a significant escalation in military operations. This marks Day 10 of Operation Epic Fury, during which Hegseth noted that Iran is experiencing severe losses.

Immediate Effects on Military Operations

According to Hegseth, the US has observed the lowest number of missile launches from Iran in the past 24 hours, indicating a shift in the conflict’s dynamics. He outlined three strategic aims: to destroy missile stockpiles, to dismantle the Iranian navy, and to permanently deny Iran nuclear capabilities. This direct approach contrasts sharply with previous military engagements that often involved complex and lengthy objectives.

Expert Perspectives on the Shift

Hegseth emphasized, “We will not relent until the enemy is totally and decisively defeated,” reflecting a commitment to a more aggressive military posture. He further remarked, “They’re straightforward and we are executing them with ruthless precision,” indicating a clear departure from the indecisiveness that characterized earlier military strategies.

This decisive shift in strategy has drawn attention from military experts and analysts, who note that the current approach aims to avoid the pitfalls of past conflicts. Hegseth’s assertion that “This is not 2003” underscores a determination to avoid the quagmires associated with earlier interventions.

As the US continues its military operations under Operation Epic Fury, the implications of Hegseth’s statements will likely resonate throughout the region and beyond. The focus on clear objectives and decisive action marks a new chapter in the US’s approach to military engagement in Iran.

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Compulsory military service in Croatia is returning after a break of almost 20 years, with around 800 individuals participating in the first batch of conscripts. This significant policy shift began on March 9, 2026, as the Croatian Armed Forces initiated training for these new recruits.

Of the 800 conscripts, more than half, specifically 446, volunteered for service, reflecting a notable interest in military careers among the population. Among these volunteers, 82 are women, who are not obligated to serve but have chosen to enlist.

The conscripts will undergo two months of basic military training, which will cover essential military skills and key military operations from Croatia’s War for Independence. This training aims to prepare the recruits for potential future roles within the Croatian Armed Forces.

Each year, up to 4,000 conscripts are expected to be called up for training, with the annual cost of basic military training estimated at about 23.7 million euros. Conscripts will receive a net monthly allowance of approximately 1,100 euros during their service.

Notably, only 10 conscripts declared a conscientious objection, opting for civilian service instead of military training. This indicates a relatively low level of dissent regarding the reinstatement of compulsory service.

Ivan Anusic, a key figure in the Croatian military, expressed hope that some of the conscripts would consider a career in the Croatian Army after completing their training. He stated, “Today, we are ending but also starting a major project that has been in preparation for a year-and-a-half.”

Compulsory military service was previously abolished in Croatia in 2007, marking a shift towards a professional military force. The return of conscription reflects changing security needs and a renewed emphasis on national defense.

As the training progresses, observers will be watching closely to see how this initiative impacts military readiness and public perception of the armed forces in Croatia.

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