In a video address, former US President Donald Trump said the United States had begun major combat operations against Iran. He framed the move as necessary to protect American citizens and allies, describing Iran’s leadership as a hostile and dangerous regime. Trump did not provide independent verification or operational details.
Trump said the stated objective was to eliminate what he called threats posed by Iran and to prevent the country from obtaining a nuclear weapon. He again labeled Iran the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism, a claim he has made repeatedly during and after his presidency.
Referring to past events, Trump cited the 1979 takeover of the US embassy in Tehran and the 1983 bombing of the US Marine barracks in Beirut. He said these incidents formed part of the historical justification for the action he described.
According to Trump, the operation would focus on Iran’s missile infrastructure and naval capabilities. He claimed these assets posed a direct risk to US forces and regional stability.
Trump also addressed Iran’s military, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard, urging them to lay down their weapons in exchange for immunity. He warned that resistance would lead to severe consequences.
In a message directed at Iranian citizens, Trump said the moment for freedom had arrived and encouraged them to take control of their country’s future. The claims made in the video have not been confirmed by US government sources.