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Donald Trump issues message to civilians of Iran as US and Israel launch attack
Donald Trump has issued a message to the civilians of Iran following attacks in the region carried out by the US and Israel.
The assault targeted key military infrastructure and even struck near Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s compound in Tehran, per the New York Post.
The operation, dubbed “Operation Epic Fury” by the Department of War, follows a significant American military buildup across the Middle East and comes after President Donald Trump repeatedly warned Iran there would be serious consequences if a deal was not reached.
Iran wasted little time in responding. Missiles were fired toward Israel in what officials described as a retaliatory strike, promising the response would be “crushing,” per BBC News.
Operation Epic Fury: US and Israel strike key Iranian targets
In an eight-minute video address on Saturday, Trump laid out the administration’s reasoning behind the strikes.
“Our objective is to defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime,” Trump said in an eight-minute video address on Saturday.
“Its menacing activities directly endanger the United States, our troops, our bases overseas and our allies throughout the world. For 47 years, the Iranian regime has chanted ‘Death to America’ and waged an unending campaign of bloodshed and mass murder targeting the United States, our troops and the innocent people in many, many countries.”
US officials had spent weeks pushing Tehran to agree to dismantle its nuclear capabilities. When the regime refused, the joint strike went ahead in broad daylight, catching Iran off guard.
According to Reuters, seven missiles hit the area surrounding Khamenei’s heavily fortified complex in central Tehran. Additional strikes reportedly landed near the presidential palace.
The 86-year-old supreme leader was not in the capital at the time. Sources told the outlet he had been moved to an undisclosed secure location before the attack.
The full scale of the American assault remains unclear. However, airstrikes were also reported in Isfahan, Qom, Karaj and Kermanshah.
Israeli military officials were reportedly preparing for the “initial phase” of the campaign to last several days. Israel’s Channel 12 said the first wave was deliberately launched during daylight hours to maximize surprise.
Neighboring Iraq swiftly shut down its airspace once the operation began.
Trump urges Iranians to overthrow ‘violent’ regime
In a dramatic appeal, Trump called on the Iranian people to rise up against their leadership, describing the regime as “violent” and claiming this moment represented a historic opportunity.
“To the great proud people of Iran, I say tonight that the hour of your freedom is at hand. Stay sheltered, don’t leave your home, it’s very dangerous outside. Bombs will be dropping everywhere. When we are finished, we will take over your government. It will be yours to take. This will be probably your only chance for generations,” Trump said.
Trump continued: “For many years, you have asked for America’s help, but you never got it. No president was willing to do what I am willing to do tonight. Now you have a president who is giving you what you want, so let’s see how you respond. America is backing you with overwhelming strength and devastating force.
“Now is the time to seize control of your destiny and to unleash the prosperous and glorious future that is close, within your reach. This is the moment for action, do not let it pass,” he said.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu voiced strong support for the strikes, condemning what he described as 47 years of tyranny under the Iranian regime.
“This murderous terrorist regime must not be allowed to arm itself with nuclear weapons that would enable it to threaten all of humanity,” he said.
Across Israel, sirens blared as a “proactive” measure warning civilians of potential retaliation, according to the IDF. Public life was effectively put on hold, with authorities declaring that only “Emergency Activity” would be permitted, banning education, work and social gatherings.