Trump Says US Has Begun ‘Major Combat Operations’ in Iran After Israel Launches Strikes – Live Updates
Escalation in the Middle East raises fears of wider regional conflict as Washington signals direct military involvement
Tensions in the Middle East have surged dramatically after former President Donald Trump announced that the United States has begun what he described as “major combat operations” in Iran, following Israeli strikes on Iranian targets. The statement, delivered amid rapidly unfolding developments, signals a potential turning point in a volatile regional crisis that could have global implications.
While official confirmation from the Pentagon and allied governments is still emerging, the announcement has already triggered urgent diplomatic activity, market reactions, and international calls for restraint.
What We Know So Far
According to initial reports, Israel launched a series of coordinated strikes targeting what it described as Iranian military infrastructure and strategic facilities. Israeli officials have framed the action as a defensive measure, citing concerns over security threats and alleged Iranian-backed activities in the region.
Shortly afterward, Trump stated that US forces had begun “major combat operations” in Iran, signaling direct American military involvement.
Details remain limited, including the scale of US operations, specific targets, and whether the actions were coordinated in advance with Israeli authorities.
Defense analysts caution that early information in fast-moving situations can evolve quickly.
Washington’s Position
Trump’s remarks suggest a shift from strategic deterrence to active engagement. In his statement, he framed the move as necessary to protect American interests and regional stability.
However, it remains unclear whether the operations were authorized under existing congressional frameworks or represent a new escalation requiring legislative oversight.
US military officials have not yet released a full operational briefing.
If confirmed, direct combat operations inside Iranian territory would mark one of the most significant escalations between the two nations in decades.
Israel’s Initial Strikes
Israeli authorities have long expressed concern over Iran’s military capabilities and regional influence. In recent years, Israel has conducted limited strikes in Syria and elsewhere against Iranian-linked targets.
However, strikes directly involving Iranian territory represent a more dramatic development.
Israel has stated that its actions were intended to prevent imminent threats, though independent verification of those claims remains ongoing.
Tehran has condemned the strikes, calling them violations of sovereignty.
Iran’s Response
Iranian officials have vowed retaliation, warning that both Israel and the United States would face consequences.
State media reported heightened military readiness across key defense installations. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps issued statements emphasizing the country’s right to self-defense.
Regional observers note that Iran maintains a network of allied groups across the Middle East, raising concerns about potential indirect responses beyond its borders.
Global Reaction
World leaders have reacted swiftly, with several European governments urging immediate de-escalation.
The United Nations called for restraint, emphasizing the risk of a broader regional war.
Energy markets responded quickly to the news, with oil prices spiking amid fears of supply disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz — a critical global shipping route.
Stock markets in Asia and Europe showed signs of volatility as investors assessed geopolitical risks.
Regional Implications
The Middle East remains a complex web of alliances and rivalries. Any sustained military confrontation between the US, Israel, and Iran could draw in additional actors.
Neighboring Gulf states are reportedly increasing security measures, while diplomatic channels are being activated to prevent wider conflict.
Military analysts warn that miscalculation could rapidly escalate the situation beyond initial intentions.
Historical Context
US-Iran relations have been strained for decades, particularly since the 1979 Iranian Revolution.
Tensions intensified following the US withdrawal from the Iran nuclear agreement in 2018 and subsequent sanctions.
In recent years, confrontations have included cyber operations, maritime incidents, and targeted strikes, but direct large-scale combat has been avoided.
If confirmed, the current operations would represent a major departure from previous patterns of engagement.
Congressional and Domestic Debate
Within the United States, questions are likely to arise regarding the legal and strategic basis for military action.
Lawmakers from both parties have previously expressed concerns about entering new conflicts without clear authorization.
Public opinion may also play a significant role, particularly given broader debates about America’s role in global conflicts.
Military Considerations
Iran possesses significant missile capabilities and asymmetric warfare tools. Its geographic size and terrain present challenges for sustained operations.
US forces in the region — including naval assets and air bases — may face heightened risk depending on Iran’s response.
Defense experts stress that even limited strikes can carry unpredictable consequences.
Diplomatic Efforts Underway
Despite the military developments, diplomatic channels are reportedly active behind the scenes.
Regional intermediaries and global powers are said to be working to contain the crisis.
Past confrontations have sometimes been followed by quiet negotiations to avoid prolonged escalation.
Whether such diplomacy can succeed this time remains uncertain.
What Comes Next?
The coming hours and days will be critical.
Key questions include:
The scope and duration of US operations
Iran’s immediate response
Whether other regional actors become involved
The potential impact on global energy supplies
Markets, governments, and military planners worldwide are closely monitoring developments.
Conclusion
The announcement that the United States has begun “major combat operations” in Iran following Israeli strikes marks a potentially transformative moment in Middle Eastern geopolitics.
While full details are still emerging, the situation carries significant risks — both regionally and globally.
As diplomatic efforts race to contain the crisis, the world watches to see whether escalation continues or whether channels for de-escalation can prevail.
In an already fragile geopolitical landscape, the stakes could hardly be higher.
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