Trump Orders Major Military Operation Against Iran as Regional Tensions Escalate
In a dramatic escalation of Middle Eastern tensions, President Donald Trump has announced a major combat operation against Iran, declaring that the Iranian regime must learn "you don't challenge America."
Speaking in a video shared on social media this morning, Trump stated: "Our objective is to defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime." The announcement comes as Israel launched coordinated strikes on Iran's capital, with smoke rising from Tehran's central areas.
Coordinated Military Action
The first apparent strike occurred near the offices of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, though it remains unclear whether the 86-year-old leader was present at the time. Iranian media reported strikes nationwide as authorities closed roads to Khamenei's compound in central Tehran.
Trump threatened "certain death" to members of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard unless they surrender their weapons, while calling the military action "a noble mission" necessary to counter Iran's nuclear weapons programme and missile development.
According to official sources, targets in the Israeli-led campaign included Iran's military installations, government symbols, and intelligence facilities. Neighbouring Iraq responded by closing its airspace following the strikes.
Nuclear Programme Concerns
The American president claimed Iran is developing long-range missiles capable of threatening US allies in Europe and potentially reaching American soil. "Iran had attempted to rebuild their nuclear programme and to continue developing the long-range missiles that can now threaten our very good friends and allies," Trump declared.
This military action represents a significant shift from diplomatic efforts, as Trump had previously sought a negotiated deal to constrain Iran's nuclear programme. Tehran had hoped to avoid warfare while maintaining its right to uranium enrichment and refusing discussions on its missile programme or support for groups like Hamas and Hezbollah.
Regional Response and Escalation
The operation has triggered emergency protocols across the region. Israeli hospitals moved patients and operations to underground facilities, while sirens sounded across Israel as the country closed its airspace. Iran responded by shutting down its airspace and cutting mobile phone services.
Trump acknowledged potential American casualties, stating "that often happens in war," while describing the strikes as part of "a massive and ongoing operation" aimed at destroying Iran's missile industry and naval capabilities.
In a direct appeal to Iranian citizens, Trump urged: "Take over your government, it will be yours to take," capitalising on domestic unrest following recent nationwide protests in Iran.
Iranian officials had previously warned that American military personnel and bases across the region would be targets for any retaliation, raising concerns about broader regional conflict as this developing situation continues to unfold.