Trump confirms U.S. has launched ‘Major Combat Operations’ in Iran 

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

President Donald Trump announced in a video message posted to social media early Saturday that the United States has initiated “major combat operations” against Iran.

This confirmed American participation in coordinated military strikes alongside Israel targeting sites in the Iranian capital and beyond.

In an eight-minute address shared on Truth Social, Trump stated: “A short time ago, the United States military began major combat operations in Iran. Our objective is to defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime, a vicious group of very hard, terrible people.”

He accused Tehran of 47 years of hostility, including chants of “Death to America” and campaigns of “bloodshed and mass murder” against US troops, bases, allies, and civilians worldwide.

Trump framed the action as defensive, aimed at neutralizing dangers posed by Iran’s “menacing activities.”

The announcement follows Israel’s earlier declaration of a “pre-emptive” strike “to remove threats to the State of Israel,” with Defence Minister Israel Katz imposing a nationwide state of emergency.

Explosions rocked downtown Tehran, with geolocated videos showing thick smoke rising over the city, particularly near government districts including areas close to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s offices.

Iranian media reported multiple missile impacts in the Republic area and other parts of the capital, though official casualty or damage details remained scarce.

US officials confirmed to various outlets that American forces are actively involved in the joint operation, utilizing air and possibly sea-based assets amid a massive regional military buildup.

The strikes build on prior US-Israeli actions, including a 2025 operation against Iranian nuclear facilities, and come after weeks of failed indirect nuclear negotiations in Geneva and elsewhere.

Trump had repeatedly expressed frustration with talks, warning of severe consequences if Iran did not curb its nuclear and missile programs.

In Israel, the Home Front Command activated full emergency protocols: Sirens blared nationwide, mobile alerts urged proximity to protected spaces, and non-essential activities, including schools and workplaces, were halted.

Major hospitals shifted operations underground; Sourasky Medical Center in Tel Aviv, Sheba in Ramat Gan, and Rambam in Haifa relocated patients to hardened facilities, discharging non-urgent cases and preparing for mass casualties. Magen David Adom moved to emergency coordination with military and health authorities.

Iranian airspace closed immediately, with reports of preparations for retaliation. An Iranian official indicated Tehran was readying a “crushing” response, potentially involving missiles, drones, or proxy forces across the region.

The operation risks broader escalation, with oil markets reacting sharply to fears of disrupted supplies. International airspace disruptions continue, and global leaders face mounting pressure to respond.

No immediate comments emerged from Russia, China, or other key players.