In a recent interview, former CENTCOM chief Gen. David Petraeus highlighted the 'exquisite intelligence' that informed Operation Epic Fury against Iran, explaining that the situation is shaped by the ongoing risks associated with Iran's missile capabilities. Petraeus suggested that U.S. intelligence officials were concerned about potential strikes from Israel in light of Iran's missile program and its perceived ability to challenge American and Israeli defenses. His remarks noted that despite robust defenses, there is a persistent threat that a small percentage of missiles could evade interception, as evidenced during the 12-Day War.

Petraeus also remarked on the lengthy and often frustrating nuclear negotiations that have taken place, suggesting they give the impression that Iran is delaying progress. He emphasized that the real driving force behind recent U.S. actions was the precise intelligence about the high-profile gathering of Iranian leadership, which happened under seemingly vulnerable circumstances. This presented an opportunity for a tactical surprise that the U.S. could capitalize on, illustrating the complex interplay of intelligence and military strategy in the region.

Looking ahead, Petraeus identified the strategic calculations involved in determining the next steps in responding to Iran's military posture, which he termed 'missile math.' This refers to the evaluation of missile capabilities and the probability of successful interceptions—key factors that will influence future military decisions and operations in response to Iran's behavior. His insights underline the critical nature of accurate intelligence in shaping military responses in a volatile geopolitical landscape.