U.S. President Donald Trump has announced the commencement of what he described as “major combat operations” against Iran, saying the objective is to eliminate imminent security threats and prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
In an eight-minute video message posted early Saturday, Trump urged members of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and security forces to lay down their arms immediately, promising immunity to those who comply. He warned that resistance would be met with overwhelming force.
Trump also advised Iranian civilians to remain indoors as military strikes were reported in multiple locations across the country. He stated that the operation could create an opportunity for political change in Iran, calling on citizens to be prepared to “reclaim” their government once the regime’s military capabilities are dismantled.
Israel confirmed its participation in the coordinated operation, describing its involvement as a preemptive measure targeting Iran’s nuclear and missile infrastructure. Explosions were reported in Tehran and other cities, with visible smoke rising over parts of the capital.
The military action follows weeks of stalled negotiations between Washington and Tehran over Iran’s nuclear programme, during which U.S. officials had warned of serious consequences if talks failed to produce a new agreement.
Further details are expected as the situation develops.
