Overview
- President Trump confirmed U.S. participation and announced the operation name, offering total immunity to Iranian security forces who lay down arms and urging citizens to take control of their government.
- Israeli and U.S. strikes hit military and institutional targets in Tehran and other key cities, with early reporting indicating Israel pursued leadership figures while U.S. forces targeted missile systems and launchers.
- Iran vowed a crushing response as missiles were launched toward Israel and alerts spread across Gulf states, with interceptions reported and explosions noted in several locations.
- Two U.S. carrier strike groups are in place — USS Gerald R. Ford positioned to shield Israel and USS Abraham Lincoln east of the Strait of Hormuz — alongside at least 13 warships and more than 100 combat aircraft for sustained operations.
- Cyber and information operations accompanied the raids, evacuations and diplomatic drawdowns were reported in the region, and analysts warned of broader escalation risks to energy markets and shipping lanes.