The United States and Israel launched coordinated strikes on Iranian missile systems and nuclear-related facilities early Tuesday, with President Donald Trump declaring that "major combat operations" were under way and urging Iranians to "take over your government."
In a live update carried by the BBC and a video message posted to Truth Social, Trump confirmed sustained U.S. military action targeting what he described as "imminent threats" from Tehran. Within hours, Iran fired missiles toward Israel and U.S. installations in the Gulf, widening the confrontation into a direct regional exchange.
Smoke rose over Tehran at dawn as explosions were reported in multiple locations. Iranian authorities acknowledged impacts on military-linked infrastructure, while Israel's defense establishment confirmed that Iran had launched retaliatory strikes.
Addressing Iran's armed forces, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, Trump issued a stark warning: "Lay down your arms and have complete immunity, or, in the alternative, face certain death." He then shifted his message to civilians, saying, "To the great, proud people of Iran, I say tonight that the hour of your freedom is at hand."
Trump urged citizens to seek shelter, before adding, "When we are finished, take over your government. It will be yours to take." He described the moment as a rare opportunity, "probably... for generations."
Israeli officials have long argued that Iran's expanding missile capabilities and nuclear program constitute an existential threat. Iran, for its part, maintains its nuclear activities are peaceful and has historically opposed Israel while supporting regional groups including Hezbollah and Hamas.
The latest escalation followed months of stalled nuclear diplomacy between Washington and Tehran. Trump has repeatedly insisted that the Iranian regime "can never have a nuclear weapon," setting strict conditions for any agreement. Iranian leaders deny seeking weapons capability.
Retaliation spread quickly across the Gulf. According to regional reports:
- Missiles and drones targeted Israel and U.S. bases in Bahrain, Kuwait and Qatar.
- Sirens sounded in multiple Gulf states.
- Civilian fatalities were reported in Abu Dhabi after debris from intercepted missiles struck a residential area.
- Iraq and the United Arab Emirates temporarily closed their airspace.
Internet monitoring groups reported near-total blackouts inside Iran, echoing past crisis responses. Airlines suspended flights across parts of the region as governments scrambled to secure airspace.
The United Kingdom stated it was not involved in the strikes and emphasized efforts to avoid a broader regional conflict, while pledging assistance to British nationals in affected areas.
International reaction has been sharply divided. Some officials questioned the legality of pre-emptive action under international law. Others argued the coordinated U.S.-Israel move aimed to neutralize what leaders consider a strategic and immediate threat.
