In a bold move to protect American interests and regional stability, the United States, in coordination with Israel, has launched a decisive military operation against the Iranian regime. Explosions rocked Tehran, reportedly targeting key government facilities, as President Trump declared the start of “major combat operations” and called on the Iranian people to liberate themselves from their oppressive rulers.

The attacks come after years of Iranian aggression and destabilizing actions in the Middle East, including support for terrorist groups, development of nuclear weapons, and repeated threats against Israel and the United States. The Trump administration has rightly recognized that appeasement and diplomacy have failed to curb Iran's malign behavior and that decisive action is necessary to protect American security and that of our allies.

Iran’s vow of a “crushing retaliation” is a predictable response from a regime that thrives on chaos and confrontation. However, the United States and Israel stand ready to defend themselves and their interests against any Iranian aggression. Israel's declaration of a state of emergency is a prudent measure to protect its citizens from potential Iranian retaliation.

President Trump’s call for regime change in Iran is a welcome departure from the failed policies of previous administrations, which sought to engage with a regime that is fundamentally hostile to American values and interests. The Iranian people deserve to live in freedom and prosperity, free from the tyranny of the ayatollahs.

The military action follows failed negotiations over Iran's nuclear program, demonstrating that the regime cannot be trusted to abide by international agreements. A strong and credible military deterrent is the only way to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and threatening regional and global security.

The US and Israeli governments' appeal to the Iranian people, urging them to rise up against their government, is a righteous call for freedom and self-determination. The Iranian people have a right to choose their own leaders and chart their own destiny.

The immediate priority is to degrade Iran's military capabilities and prevent it from launching retaliatory attacks. The long-term goal is to support the Iranian people in their struggle for freedom and democracy.