US President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that the United States had initiated significant military operations in Iran, cautioning about the possibility of American casualties. The airstrikes, directed at obliterating Iranian missiles and naval capabilities, come after repeated warnings from both the US and Israel regarding potential strikes if Iran continued its nuclear and ballistic missile programs.
In a video shared on Truth Social, Trump stated, “My administration has taken all necessary precautions to reduce risks for US personnel in the region. Nevertheless, I must emphasize that the Iranian regime poses a threat.” He acknowledged the potential loss of American lives in the operation but emphasized its noble purpose for the future.
The military operation, dubbed “EPIC FURY” by the US military, marks the second time strikes have been carried out on Iran since Trump’s return to office last year. Unlike the previous incident in June, these strikes are anticipated to unfold over several days, as confirmed by a US official to Reuters.
Iran has signaled readiness for retaliation, with an Iranian official warning of a forceful response. The Israeli military reported that Iran had launched missiles towards Israel in response to the US-led strikes.
In his address, Trump urged members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard, Iran’s armed forces, to surrender their weapons, promising immunity. He cautioned that failure to comply would result in “certain death.”
Recent discussions between Washington and Tehran on Iran’s nuclear program have failed to yield a resolution. Following the latest talks on Thursday, Trump expressed frustration, stating, “Iran’s refusal to abandon its nuclear ambitions has reached a breaking point.”
Trump had initially suggested military action against Iran in January during widespread protests in Iran. He had vowed support for protesters and, in his recent statement, encouraged Iranians to rise up and take control of their government amidst the ongoing military operations.
“When the operation concludes, seize the opportunity to claim your government. This may be your only chance for generations to come,” he asserted.
