In a statement delivered Saturday, President Donald Trump confirmed the initiation of extensive military operations in Iran, aiming to defend American interests and eliminate the "imminent threats" posed by the Iranian regime.
"A short time ago, the United States military began major combat operations in Iran," Trump announced. "Our objective is to defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime, a vicious group of very hard, terrible people."
The President further emphasized that Iran's "menacing activities" had directly endangered the U.S., its troops, and allies across the globe. He highlighted the regime’s longstanding hostility, including its infamous chant of "Death to America," and its involvement in violent attacks targeting Americans. Trump referenced key events, including the 1979 U.S. Embassy takeover, the 1983 bombing of the Marine barracks in Beirut, and the 2000 attack on the USS Cole.
"Iran’s proxies have continued to launch countless attacks against American forces stationed in the Middle East in recent years, as well as U.S. naval and commercial vessels in international shipping lanes," Trump stated. "It's been mass terror, and we're not going to put up with it any longer."
He also noted Iran's role in supporting militant groups, including Hamas, which carried out the deadly October 7 attacks on Israel, resulting in over 1,000 fatalities, including 46 Americans. He condemned the violence, calling it "something like the world has never seen before."
Trump reiterated that Iran is the "world's number one state sponsor of terror," pointing to its violent crackdown on domestic protests, which resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands of its own citizens.
The President reaffirmed his administration's stance on Iran's nuclear ambitions. "It has always been the policy of the United States, in particular, my administration, that this terrorist regime can never have a nuclear weapon," Trump declared, referring to last June’s "Operation Midnight Hammer," which targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan.
Trump also addressed Iran's refusal to abandon its nuclear pursuits despite multiple diplomatic efforts. "We tried. They wanted to do it. They didn't want to do it. Again, they wanted to do it. They didn't want to do it," he said. "But Iran refused, just as it has for decades, they rejected every opportunity to renounce their nuclear ambitions, and we can't take it anymore."
The President warned that Iran's nuclear program and missile development could soon pose a direct threat to the United States and its allies, including Europe. He stated that the U.S. military would take decisive action to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, vowing to "obliterate" its missile industry and "annihilate" its navy.
Trump continued, stating that the U.S. would dismantle Iran’s terrorist proxies and ensure they no longer destabilize the region. "We will ensure that Iran does not obtain a nuclear weapon. It's a very simple message. They will never have a nuclear weapon."
Regarding military operations, Trump emphasized the strength of the U.S. Armed Forces, noting his efforts to rebuild the military during his first term in office. "There is no military on earth even close to its power, strength or sophistication," he said. "We are going to destroy their missiles and raze their missile industry to the ground."
The President acknowledged the possibility of casualties, describing them as a risk inherent in warfare. "We may have casualties. That often happens in war," Trump stated, adding that the mission was essential for the long-term security of the American people.
He expressed hope for the safety of U.S. service members and called for divine protection. "We pray for every service member as they selflessly risk their lives to ensure that Americans and our children will never be threatened by a nuclear armed Iran," Trump said.
In a direct message to Iran’s military and law enforcement, Trump urged them to lay down their weapons. "You must lay down your weapons and have complete immunity, or in the alternative, face certain death," he warned.
Trump also addressed the Iranian people, offering a message of support for their struggle. "To the great, proud people of Iran, I say tonight that the hour of your freedom is at hand," he said. "Stay sheltered. Don't leave your home. It's very dangerous outside. Bombs will be dropping everywhere."
He encouraged the Iranian populace to take control of their future. "Now you have a president who is giving you what you want, so let's see how you respond," Trump said. "America is backing you with overwhelming strength and devastating force. Now is the time to seize control of your destiny."
The President concluded his remarks with a blessing for U.S. military personnel and a call for divine intervention. "May God bless the brave men and women of America's Armed Forces. May God bless the United States of America. May God bless you all. Thank you."