The United States and Israel launched coordinated strikes on Iran early Saturday, with President Donald Trump announcing that U.S. forces had begun what he described as “major combat operations” aimed at countering threats from Tehran.
In a video message posted shortly after the operation began, Trump said the objective was to defend American citizens by eliminating what he called imminent threats from Iran’s leadership.
He also urged members of Iran’s military to stand down and encouraged Iranians to challenge the country’s ruling authorities.
Israeli officials confirmed that their military carried out what they described as preemptive strikes and declared a nationwide state of emergency.
The Israeli military said it detected missiles launched from Iran toward Israeli territory following the attacks. American embassies in Israel and Qatar issued shelter-in-place guidance for U.S. citizens.
Details on the full scope of the targets were not immediately released. The operations followed recent negotiations between U.S. and Iranian officials in Geneva that ended without a breakthrough.
U.S. forces had increased their presence in the region in recent weeks, deploying advanced aircraft and naval assets.
Regional tensions remain high as officials monitor potential retaliation and the broader security impact.
