by Stefan J. Bos, Worthy News Chief International Correspondent
WASHINGTON/TEHRAN (Worthy News) – U.S. President Donald J. Trump announced that American forces have begun what he described as “major combat operations” against Iran, saying the objective is to eliminate what he called “imminent threats from the Iranian regime” and prevent it from obtaining nuclear weapons. He also urged Iranians to topple the country’s current leadership.
In a nationally televised address, Trump said the United States had launched a large-scale military campaign aimed at neutralizing Iran’s missile and nuclear capabilities.
“A short time ago, the United States military began major combat operations in Iran,” Trump declared, adding that Tehran posed a direct threat to American troops, overseas bases, and allies.
He described Iran as “the world’s number one state sponsor of terror” and accused the regime of orchestrating decades of violence against Americans and others worldwide.
Trump warned that Iran must never obtain nuclear weapons and said Washington would use overwhelming force to prevent that outcome.
U.S. STRIKES IRAN
The president referenced previous strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, including Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, and accused Tehran of attempting to rebuild its capabilities despite warnings.
He said the United States would destroy Iran’s missile infrastructure and naval assets, promising that key military capabilities would be “obliterated.”
Trump acknowledged that American casualties were possible but described the mission as necessary to secure long-term U.S. and allied safety.
He addressed members of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and security forces, urging them to lay down their weapons and accept immunity, while warning of “certain death” if they resist.
Turning to the Iranian public, Trump said “the hour of your freedom is at hand,” urging citizens to remain indoors as military operations continue.
REGIONAL ESCALATION FEARS
The strikes mark one of the most dramatic escalations between Washington and Tehran in decades, raising fears of a broader Middle East conflict.
Analysts warn that Iranian-backed militias in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and Yemen could retaliate against U.S. interests or regional allies.
Global markets are closely monitoring the situation amid concerns about disruptions to oil supplies and international shipping routes.
Iranian state media condemned the U.S. operation, though a full formal military response had not yet been detailed at the time of publication.
Diplomatic channels remain tense as international leaders call for restraint while assessing the rapidly evolving situation.
GLOBAL SECURITY CONCERNS
Beyond the military implications, the conflict raises serious concerns for Iran’s religious minorities, including its small but vulnerable Christian community.
Iran, an Islamic republic since 1979, officially recognizes historic Armenian and Assyrian Christian communities. However, converts from Islam to Christianity have faced arrests, surveillance, and prison sentences.
Advocacy groups such as Open Doors and Christian Solidarity Worldwide have documented house church raids, detentions, and charges against converts accused of “acting against national security.”
Analysts caution that during periods of external conflict, Iranian authorities have historically intensified crackdowns on groups perceived as having Western ties, potentially placing Christian converts at greater risk.
At the same time, some Iranian Christians — particularly those in underground house churches — have quietly expressed hope that political change could eventually lead to greater religious freedom.
IMPACT ON CHRISTIANS
Iran has a population of roughly 88 million people. While the vast majority are Muslim, estimates suggest several million Christians live in the country, including members of historic churches and evangelical converts.
Human rights observers warn that heightened instability could either deepen repression or, if political transformation occurs, open space for expanded civil and religious liberties.
Trump said the mission was intended not only to protect American security but also to prevent what he described as a “wicked dictatorship” from threatening future generations.
He concluded by asking God to protect U.S. service members and expressed confidence that American forces would prevail.
Copyright 1999-2026 Worthy News. This article was originally published on Worthy News and was reproduced with permission.
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