The United States and Israel launched coordinated military strikes on Iran after diplomatic efforts over Tehran’s nuclear program collapsed. The move followed weeks of tension over Iran’s alleged nuclear and missile activities. In an eight-minute video, Donald Trump described the assault as a “massive and ongoing operation,” signaling a clear shift from diplomacy to direct military action.

Details initially remained limited, but reports soon emerged from inside Iran. According to BBC News and the Associated Press, smoke was seen rising over central Tehran, with one reported strike near offices linked to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. These early accounts highlighted the seriousness of the escalation.

Trump said the operation aimed to destroy Iran’s missile capabilities and dismantle its missile industry. He claimed Iran was attempting to rebuild its nuclear program and develop long-range missiles capable of threatening U.S. allies, American troops abroad, and potentially the United States. Framing the strikes as preventative, he argued that diplomacy had failed and military action was necessary to protect regional and domestic security.

Israel confirmed its direct participation in the attack. Defense Minister Israel Katz called the strike “preemptive,” stressing the need to act before any imminent threat emerged. The Israeli government declared a nationwide alert, and the Israel Defense Forces warned the public to prepare for possible retaliation. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu supported the joint action, describing Iran’s leadership as an existential threat.

Trump also addressed the Iranian public, urging citizens and security forces to seize what he called a historic opportunity to take control of their government once the operation ended. He suggested immunity for those who stood down, while warning of severe consequences for resistance, echoing language he had used during earlier anti-government protests in Iran.