President Donald Trump declared that U.S. and allied forces carried out sweeping military strikes across Iran under a campaign he called “Operation Epic Fury,” asserting that the offensive killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and dismantled much of Iran’s military leadership.
In a national address, Trump described the operation as one of the largest military offensives ever undertaken, saying American forces struck hundreds of targets, including Revolutionary Guard facilities, air defense systems and naval assets. He also said three U.S. service members were killed in action and warned additional casualties were possible as combat continues.
“As one nation, we grieve for the true American patriots who have made the ultimate sacrifice,” Trump said, adding that the United States would deliver “the most punishing blow” to those responsible for attacks on Americans.
Trump asserted that Iran’s military command structure had been eliminated and claimed some Iranian officials were seeking surrender and immunity. He urged Iranian forces to “lay down your arms and receive full immunity or face certain death” and called on Iranian citizens to “seize this moment” to reclaim their country.
The president framed the offensive as necessary to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and threatening the United States and its allies, particularly Israel.
Independent verification of key battlefield claims — including the reported death of Iran’s supreme leader and the extent of damage inside Iran — was not immediately available, and Iranian authorities had not publicly confirmed the president’s assertions at the time of the address.
The operation represents a dramatic escalation in the Middle East conflict. U.S. officials have confirmed American casualties, and Iran has vowed retaliation, raising fears of a broader regional war.
