WASHINGTON: The United States and Israel carried out coordinated military strikes against Iran on Saturday, marking what President Donald Trump described as the beginning of “major combat operations.”
Explosions were reported in Tehran, including areas close to the presidential complex and the offices of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
According to initial reports, multiple missiles were fired from both air and sea, with several landing near key government locations in the capital.
President Trump confirmed the joint operation, stating that the action was taken to protect American citizens and counter what he called growing threats from the Iranian government. He reiterated that Iran must not be allowed to obtain nuclear weapons, adding that the strikes were aimed at disrupting efforts to revive Tehran’s nuclear program.
“Our objective is to eliminate the dangers posed by the Iranian regime and safeguard the American people,” Trump said in a statement.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz also acknowledged the operation, describing it as a pre-emptive measure to address security threats against Israel. He said the action was intended to neutralize risks before they could escalate further.
The strikes represent a significant escalation in tensions in the region, as both Washington and Tel Aviv signal a more forceful stance toward Tehran.
