The United States launched coordinated military strikes against Iran early Saturday morning in what President Donald Trump called a “massive and ongoing operation” to prevent the regime from obtaining nuclear weapons. Trump announced the attacks shortly after midnight Mountain Time in a video posted to Truth Social.
The Pentagon named the campaign “Operation Epic Fury.” Israel simultaneously launched strikes it initially called “Operation Shield of Judah,” with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stating the goal was to “remove the existential threat posed by the terrorist regime in Iran.”
Explosions were reported in Tehran, Qom, Kermanshah, Isfahan, and Karaj. Trump confirmed U.S. forces used Tomahawk cruise missiles and fighter jets in the strikes. Iran’s internet was shut down nationwide, with connectivity dropping to four percent of normal levels.
Trump warned Iranian Revolutionary Guard forces to “lay down your weapons and have complete immunity, or in the alternative, face certain death.” He urged Iranian civilians to remain sheltered, telling them “the hour of your freedom is at hand” and encouraging them to “take over your government” when strikes conclude.
Iran responded with retaliatory missile and drone strikes targeting Israel and U.S. military bases. Explosions were reported at facilities in Bahrain, Abu Dhabi, and Qatar. Air raid sirens sounded across Israel as the country declared a nationwide state of emergency.
An Iranian source close to the establishment told Reuters the strikes killed several senior Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commanders and regime political officials. U.S. sources have not confirmed casualties. U.S. officials told Reuters the operation could last several days.
Trump acknowledged potential U.S. casualties. The attacks follow failed negotiations in Geneva last week over Iran’s nuclear program and ballistic missile development.
Our prayers are with our troops and their families.
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