The President of the United States, Donald Trump, has announced that the United States, together with Israel, has commenced “major combat operations” against Iran.
Trump disclosed this in an eight-minute video address posted early Saturday on Truth Social.
“A short time ago, the United States military began major combat operations in Iran,” he said.
“Our objective is to defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime, a vicious group of very hard, terrible people.”
The US president accused Tehran of 47 years of sustained hostility toward America, referencing chants of “Death to America” and alleging campaigns of “bloodshed and mass murder” targeting American troops, bases, allies, and civilians globally.
He described the operation as defensive, saying it was a necessary move to neutralize threats arising from Iran’s “menacing activities.”
The announcement came after Israel earlier confirmed carrying out what it termed a “pre-emptive” strike aimed at removing threats to the State of Israel. Following the operation, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz declared a nationwide state of emergency.
Explosions were reported across central Tehran, with verified footage showing thick smoke rising over key government districts, including areas near the offices of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
Iranian state media reported multiple missile impacts in the Republic area and other parts of the capital, although official figures regarding casualties and the extent of damage have not yet been released.
US officials confirmed to several media outlets that American forces are actively participating in the joint operation, deploying air assets and potentially sea-based capabilities amid heightened military tensions in the region.
In Israel, major hospitals, including Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Sheba Medical Center, and Rambam Health Care Campus, relocated patients to fortified underground units, discharged non-urgent cases, and prepared for possible mass casualties.
The national emergency service, Magen David Adom, also heightened coordination with military and health authorities.
Iranian airspace was shut down immediately amid indications that Tehran is preparing retaliatory action. An Iranian official warned of a “crushing” response, potentially involving missiles, drones, or allied forces operating across the region.
