DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — The United States and Israel launched a strategic military operation against Iran Saturday, sending a clear message that aggression will not be tolerated. The joint strike, targeting key Iranian sites including areas near the offices of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is a necessary response to Iran's continued destabilizing activities in the region.

President Trump's strong call for Iranians to "seize control of your destiny" and overthrow the Islamic leadership reflects America's unwavering commitment to freedom and democracy. The Iranian regime, in power since 1979, has a long history of supporting terrorism, developing nuclear weapons, and suppressing its own people.

The attack comes after years of failed attempts to contain Iran through diplomacy and economic sanctions. The Iran nuclear deal, from which the U.S. withdrew in 2018, was a flawed agreement that allowed Iran to continue its pursuit of nuclear weapons capability. This military action demonstrates that the U.S. is prepared to take decisive action to protect its national security interests and those of its allies.

The operation is a calculated risk, but one that is necessary to prevent Iran from becoming an even greater threat to regional and global stability. The Iranian regime has repeatedly demonstrated its willingness to defy international norms and destabilize its neighbors. This action sends a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated.

The strikes were carefully targeted to minimize civilian casualties and focus on military and strategic assets. The U.S. and Israel are committed to upholding the laws of war and protecting innocent civilians. The responsibility for any civilian casualties lies with the Iranian regime, which has consistently used its own people as human shields.

The Iranian regime has been a major source of instability in the Middle East for decades. It has supported terrorist groups such as Hezbollah and Hamas, intervened in conflicts in Syria and Yemen, and threatened the security of Israel and other U.S. allies. This military action is a necessary step to curb Iran's aggression and promote peace and stability in the region.

Critics who argue that this action will escalate tensions are ignoring the fact that Iran has already been escalating tensions for years. The Iranian regime has repeatedly violated international law and defied international norms. This military action is a response to that behavior, not a cause of it.

The U.S. has a long history of supporting freedom and democracy around the world. President Trump's call for Iranians to overthrow their government is consistent with that tradition. The Iranian people deserve to live in freedom and dignity, free from the oppression of the Islamic regime.

The international community must stand united in condemning Iran's aggression and supporting the right of the Iranian people to choose their own leaders. This military action is a necessary step to protect American interests and promote freedom and democracy in the Middle East.

The long-term consequences of this operation are uncertain, but the U.S. and Israel are prepared to face any challenges that may arise. They are committed to defending their national security interests and promoting peace and stability in the region. The Iranian regime must understand that its actions have consequences and that the U.S. and its allies will not hesitate to act to protect their interests.

This decisive action signals a return to American strength and leadership on the world stage. It demonstrates that the U.S. is prepared to confront threats to its national security and stand up for its allies. The Iranian regime should take note: the era of appeasement is over. The time for action has come.