In a dramatic video address shared early Saturday, US President Donald Trump announced that the United States military had begun a “massive and ongoing” operation—referred to in some reports as “major combat operations”—against Iran, conducted in coordination with Israel. The strikes targeted Iranian military assets, including missile facilities and the navy, amid accusations that Tehran was rebuilding its nuclear program and developing long-range missiles capable of threatening US allies in Europe, American troops overseas, and potentially the US homeland.
President Trump accused the Iranian regime of refusing to abandon its nuclear ambitions, describing it as a “very wicked, radical dictatorship” that has long posed threats through its support for terrorist proxies, roadside bombs, and other attacks that have killed thousands, including many Americans. He emphasized that the United States would ensure Iran never obtains a nuclear weapon, stating unequivocally: “They will never have a nuclear weapon.”
Detailing the scope of the military action, Trump said the US aimed to “destroy their missiles and raze their missile industry to the ground,” “annihilate their navy,” and eliminate the ability of Iran’s terrorist proxies to destabilize the region or attack US forces. He noted that his administration had rebuilt the US military to unmatched levels of power, strength, and sophistication during his first term, and that every step had been taken to minimize risks to American personnel—though he acknowledged that casualties, including the loss of courageous American heroes, were possible in war.
Trump addressed members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard, Iran’s armed forces, and police directly, urging them to “lay down your weapons” and promising “complete immunity” and fair treatment if they complied. He warned that failure to do so would result in “certain death.”
In a direct appeal to the Iranian people, President Trump declared: “To the great proud people of Iran, I say tonight that the hour of freedom is at hand.” He advised civilians to stay sheltered indoors, warning that “bombs will be dropping everywhere” and that it was “very dangerous outside.” Once the operation concluded, he urged them to “take over your government,” asserting it would be “yours to take” and likely their “only chance for generations.” Trump highlighted that previous US presidents had not been willing to act decisively, but now Iranians had a leader backing them with “overwhelming strength and devastating force.” He called on them to seize control of their destiny and unleash a prosperous future.
The address came amid reports of explosions in Tehran and other parts of Iran, with the joint US-Israeli operation following months of planning and escalating tensions over Iran’s nuclear and missile programs. Trump framed the mission as noble and future-oriented, aimed at protecting Americans and their children from a nuclear-armed Iran. He prayed for the safety of US service members and expressed confidence in their ultimate success with divine help.
The strikes mark a significant escalation in the longstanding confrontation between the US, Israel, and Iran, with President Trump positioning the action as both a defensive measure against imminent threats and an opportunity for regime change driven by the Iranian people themselves.
