Following weeks of rising tensions and stalled negotiations, the US and Israel launched a military operation early Saturday aimed at toppling the Iranian regime.
Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu said in separate statements the operation seeks to undermine Iran’s military capabilities and give its people a chance to take control of their government. Trump stated: “Bombs will be dropping everywhere. When we are finished, take over your government. It will be yours to take; this will probably be your only chance for generations.”
Several explosions were reported in the Iranian capital, Tehran, as well as other locations across the country, with new waves of blasts occurring at intervals of a few minutes. Iran has already begun retaliating as several missiles are being intercepted in Israel.
Multiple media outlets also reported that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, has been moved to a secure location, likely outside Tehran.
US-Iran tensions have escalated in recent weeks as a new wave of mass protests erupted across Iran, demanding radical change amid economic hardship and political oppression. Authorities responded by shutting down the internet nationwide and reportedly killing thousands of protesters.
