In a recent 8-minute address shared on his Truth Social platform, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the United States military has commenced "major combat operations in Iran." This escalatory statement came as Trump expressed concerns over Iran's ongoing nuclear program development and its potential missile capabilities aimed at the U.S. He also called on the Iranian populace to "take over your government."
Trump's address articulated that the primary objective of these military operations is to defend American citizens by neutralizing what he described as imminent threats posed by the Iranian regime. He characterized the Iranian leadership as a "vicious group" that has conducted an unrelenting campaign of violence and terror against Americans and their allies. Trump referenced significant historical events, including the 1979 U.S. Embassy hostage crisis in Tehran and the 1983 Beirut barracks bombing, to highlight Iran's long history of actions against American military personnel and interests.
The President reiterated his stance that Iran consistently promotes anti-American sentiments, having chanted "Death to America" for decades. He cited the Iranian regime's involvement in various acts of terrorism, including the explosive attacks on American forces and interests, positioning Iran as "the world’s number one state sponsor of terror." Following recent violent protests within Iran that resulted in numerous casualties, Trump emphasized the need to prevent the regime from acquiring nuclear weapons, reiterating the commitment of the U.S. to obliterate Iran's nuclear program entirely.
In an aggressive tone, Trump claimed that the United States conducted "Operation Midnight Hammer" last June, successfully targeting key sites in Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan to dismantle Iran's nuclear capabilities. He expressed frustration over Iran's reluctance to negotiate, lamenting that they have historically denied opportunities to forgo their nuclear ambitions and actively continued to advance their missile technology.
Trump vowed that the U.S. military's operations would involve destroying Iran's missile industries and navy, insisting that the Iranian regime would face "certain death" if it did not lay down its arms. Addressing the members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard and Iran's armed forces, he offered a choice: surrender with complete immunity or confront inevitable destruction.
Towards the Iranian people, Trump conveyed a message of hope, stating, "the hour of your freedom is at hand." He urged caution, encouraging Iranians to remain indoors during the military operations, anticipating widespread bombardment. He portrayed this moment as a unique opportunity for the Iranian populace to reclaim their government, framing the U.S. actions as unprecedented support for their aspirations for freedom and prosperity.
Trump concluded his speech with a powerful statement, asserting that this is the moment for the Iranian people to seize control of their future. Reiterating the backing of the United States through "overwhelming strength and devastating force," he appealed for decisive action. The address ended with a blessing for American service members and a prayer for their safety amid the unfolding military operations.
