US President Donald Trump said the United States has begun “major combat operations” in Iran after Israeli strikes on Tehran. He said the objective is to defend Americans by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime.
In a video posted on Truth Social, Trump accused Iran of decades of hostility toward the US. He cited chants of “Death to America” and attacks on US troops and allies. He called the military campaign a “noble mission” driven by Iran’s nuclear ambitions and missile development.
Trump vowed to destroy Iran’s missile systems and raze its missile industry. He also threatened to annihilate Iran’s navy. Addressing Iranian forces, he offered immunity if they surrender and warned of “certain death” if they resist. He told civilians that their “hour of freedom is at hand.”
He referenced the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack on Israel, calling Hamas an Iranian proxy. Trump said Iran has tried to rebuild its nuclear programme despite earlier strikes.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz described Israel’s daylight strike on Tehran as a preventive move to remove threats. Witnesses reported smoke near offices linked to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
The escalation raises fears of a broader regional conflict.
