The United States and Israel have launched what President Donald Trump described as “major combat operations” against Iran, marking a dramatic escalation in already heightened Middle East tensions.
In a statement confirming the operations, President Trump said the joint action was underway and framed it as part of broader efforts to counter Tehran’s nuclear ambitions. Washington has recently increased pressure on Iran to agree to a revised nuclear deal, with Trump stating on Friday that he was “not happy” with Iran’s negotiating position during ongoing talks.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that Iran has launched retaliatory strikes following the initial attacks. According to Israeli officials, defensive systems were activated in response to incoming threats.
Images circulating online show smoke rising over parts of Tehran, with reports of explosions heard in at least five cities across Iran. The full extent of the damage and casualties remains unclear.
In remarks that are likely to draw international attention, President Trump urged the Iranian public to “take over” their government, saying, “It will be yours to take. This will be probably your only chance for generations.”
Memories remain fresh in Israel of the brief but intense 12-day conflict with Iran last June, which significantly weakened Iranian air defence systems, according to regional analysts. Observers note that the current escalation comes against that backdrop of unresolved tensions and military recalibration.
Independent verification of events inside Iran remains difficult. International news organisations frequently face visa restrictions from Tehran, limiting their ability to report directly from the ground. As a result, much of the current information is being gathered from official statements and unverified social media footage.
Global leaders are expected to respond swiftly, amid fears that the situation could spiral into a broader regional conflict.