U.S. President Donald Trump announced the launch of what he described as a “massive and ongoing operation” targeting Iran, calling on the Iranian people to seize what he portrayed as a historic opportunity to change their government.
President Trump stated:“Finally, I say to the great and proud Iranian people: your hour of freedom has arrived tonight.”
He added:“When we are finished, take control of your government. It will be yours. And this may be your only opportunity for generations to come.”
Direct Message to the Iranian People
Addressing the Iranian population directly, Trump said:“No president has ever been willing to do what I am prepared to do tonight. Now you have a president who is giving you what you want. Let’s see how you respond. America stands behind you with overwhelming strength and devastating power. Now is the time to take control of your destiny and unleash a prosperous and glorious future that is within your reach.”
Washington: Iran Will Never Obtain a Nuclear Weapon
President Trump described Iran as “the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism,” asserting that it would never be allowed to possess nuclear weapons. His remarks came shortly after the United States and Israel carried out a joint strike against Iran.
In a video posted on Truth Social, Trump claimed that Iran had “recently killed tens of thousands of its own citizens in the streets during protests.”
He said:“It has always been the policy of the United States, especially under my administration, that this terrorist regime can never possess a nuclear weapon. I will repeat it: they can never have a nuclear weapon.”
Objective of the U.S. Military Operation
In his address, Trump emphasized that the primary goal of the operation is to protect the American people, stating:
“Our objective is to defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime, a group of evil people who are extremely cruel and brutal.”
Pentagon Announces Operation Name: “Epic Fury”
The Pentagon announced via social media that the military campaign has been named “Operation Epic Fury.”
Three U.S. officials indicated that the operation is expected to continue for several days and will target:
Military sites affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps
Government buildings
Iranian intelligence assets
Defensive military installations
This suggests a multi-phase military campaign rather than a limited strike.
Netanyahu: Joint Operation to Remove an “Existential Threat”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in his first statement following the strikes, said that Israel and the United States had launched a joint operation aimed at eliminating what he described as the “existential threat” posed by Iran’s regime.
Netanyahu named the operation “Roar of the Lion” and thanked President Donald Trump for his “historic leadership.”
He added:“This murderous terrorist regime must not be armed with nuclear weapons that would enable it to threaten all of humanity.”
Netanyahu also called on the Iranian people to “throw off the yoke of tyranny,” saying that the joint action would create conditions enabling the Iranian people to determine their own future.
Iranian Missiles Launched Toward Israel
The Israel Defense Forces announced that missiles had been identified as launched from Iran toward Israel, adding that air defense systems were actively working to intercept the threats.
This development signals a shift from isolated strikes to direct military exchanges, significantly raising the risk of broader regional escalation.
U.S. Security Warnings Across the Gulf and Israel
U.S. embassies in Gulf countries and Israel issued urgent security alerts to American citizens following reports of potential drone and missile attacks.
According to official embassy social media statements, media reports indicated possible threats involving missiles or drones over Bahrain.
U.S. citizens residing in Gulf countries were urged to:
Remain in their residences
Review personal security plans
Stay alert for potential attacks
Embassy personnel were also instructed to remain in their residences as a precautionary measure.
Safety Guidelines Issued to Citizens
The U.S. embassies outlined several safety measures to follow in the event of attacks:
If a loud explosion or sirens are heard, seek shelter immediately.
When inside a building, move to a lower floor with minimal external walls, windows, or openings; close all doors and sit near an interior wall away from windows.
If outdoors, immediately seek shelter in a fortified building; if unavailable, lie down and cover your head with your hands.
Be aware that falling debris remains dangerous even if missiles or drones are intercepted.
After an attack, stay away from debris and follow official guidance through major media outlets.
