Trump Announces Major US Military Operation Against Iran in Video Address
Standing at his home in Florida's Mar-a-Lago, wearing a suit with a white baseball cap, US President Donald Trump declared war in the Middle East. In a video posted on Truth Social, Trump confirmed that the United States has launched "major combat operations in Iran" on Saturday, aiding Israel with missile attacks on Tehran.
Details of the Military Operation
In the eight-minute-long video, Trump stated, "The United States military is undertaking a massive and ongoing operation to prevent this very wicked, radical dictatorship from threatening America and our core national security interests." He emphasized the goal to "destroy their missiles and raze their missile industry to the ground." The operation began with Trump claiming the objective is to "defend the American people" by "eliminating imminent threats" posed by the Iranian regime.
He highlighted that Iran's activities "directly endanger the United States, our troops, our bases overseas and our allies throughout the world." Trump pointed out that for 47 years, the Iranian regime has chanted "Death to America" and waged a campaign of bloodshed, targeting the US and innocent people globally.
Trump's Justification and Warnings
The president accused Iran of funding terrorist proxies that have "soaked the Earth with blood and guts," stating, "It's been mass terror and we're not going to put up with it any longer." He acknowledged potential costs of war, including American casualties, but framed the decision as one for the future, saying, "We're doing this not for now. We're doing this for the future, and it is a noble mission." Trump added that the US had "taken every possible step to minimise the risk to US personnel in the region."
In a direct message to Iranians, Trump encouraged them to take control of their government after US operations conclude, calling it a "once-in-a-generation opportunity." He urged Iranian officials to "lay down your arms" or "face certain death," and said, "When we are finished, take over your government. It will be yours to take. This will be probably your only chance for generations."
Coordinated Strike with Israel
Israel and the United States have launched a coordinated pre-emptive military strike on Iran, targeting approximately 30 sites in Tehran, predominantly military installations and IRGC facilities. Trump claimed, "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." He promised American backing with "overwhelming strength and devastating force," urging Iranians to "seize control of your destiny."
Background and Failed Negotiations
The US and Iran had been in negotiations this month to avoid conflict, following America's bombing of Iran's nuclear facilities in June. However, Trump argued the talks were unproductive, stating, "They just wanted to practice evil. They rejected every opportunity to renounce their nuclear ambitions, and we can't take it anymore." He added, "We warned them never to resume their malicious pursuit of nuclear weapons. And we sought repeatedly to make a deal. We tried."
Reports indicate smoke rising in Tehran after explosions, with the attack confirmed by Israel. The situation remains fluid as military operations continue.
