US and Israel Initiate Major Military Campaign Against Iran

Trump Announces Joint Operation Targeting Iranian Forces

On Saturday, February 28, US President Donald Trump declared the commencement of a significant and ongoing military operation conducted jointly by American and Israeli forces against Iran. In a video message shared on Truth Social, Trump urged Iranian soldiers to surrender immediately or face severe repercussions.

Objectives Behind the Military Offensive

The president emphasized that the campaign’s primary goal is to halt Iran’s leadership from posing threats to the United States and its allies. “We are executing a large-scale operation to dismantle this radical and malevolent regime that endangers America’s national security interests,” Trump stated.

Context: Rising Tensions and Diplomatic Efforts

This military escalation follows weeks of heightened tensions, during which the US administration persistently pressured Tehran to accept a renewed nuclear agreement. Trump also condemned Iran’s harsh suppression of domestic protests earlier this year. Despite ongoing indirect negotiations between US and Iranian officials, including talks held in Oman and Switzerland, diplomatic progress remains uncertain.

Strategic Military Preparations

Prior to launching the strikes, the US repositioned over a dozen naval vessels and aircraft to the Middle East, signaling readiness for potential combat operations. This military buildup coincided with backchannel discussions aimed at curbing Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

Scope and Impact of the Campaign

Trump outlined the operation’s comprehensive nature, vowing to dismantle Iran’s missile capabilities and naval forces. “We will obliterate their missile infrastructure and neutralize their navy, ensuring that terrorist proxies destabilizing the region are eliminated,” he declared.

Diplomatic Attempts and Iranian Resistance

The president reiterated that the US had made multiple attempts to negotiate a diplomatic resolution to Iran’s nuclear program, but Iranian leaders consistently rejected these overtures. “This regime will soon realize that challenging the might of the United States armed forces comes with grave consequences,” Trump warned.

Risks and Realities of the Conflict

Trump acknowledged the inherent dangers of the military engagement, cautioning that American troops might suffer casualties. “The Iranian regime is intent on violence. Brave American service members may be lost, which is a tragic but often unavoidable aspect of war,” he said, underscoring the necessity of the mission for long-term security.

Regional Implications and Future Prospects

This confrontation represents one of the most direct and significant clashes between the US, Israel, and Iran in recent years, raising concerns about a potential wider conflict in the Middle East. Despite the military actions, diplomatic channels remain open, with mediators like Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi expressing cautious optimism. After the third round of talks, Albusaidi remarked to CBS News that a nuclear deal “is within reach” but requires additional time to finalize.

Current Developments and Global Reactions

As of early 2026, international observers are closely monitoring the situation, with global markets reacting to the instability in the region. Analysts note that the US and Israel’s coordinated military efforts could reshape geopolitical dynamics, especially considering Iran’s strategic alliances and proxy networks across the Middle East.