US and Israel Launch Attack on Iran, Killing Supreme Leader Khamenei

A major military operation conducted by the United States and Israel has resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, President Donald Trump announced Saturday according to PBS NewsHour. The attack follows weeks of escalating tensions and threats from the Trump administration.

Trump’s Response and Call to Iranian People

President Trump, in a video posted on social media, stated that the U.S. Had begun “major combat operations in Iran” as reported by the Associated Press. He also urged the Iranian people to “take over your government” according to the AP.

Operation Epic Fury and Congressional Reactions

The military operation, dubbed “Operation Epic Fury,” was launched after weeks of threats from President Trump as detailed by CBS News. Mr. Trump stated his aim was to secure freedom and safety for the Iranian people according to CBS News.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune praised President Trump for “taking action to thwart” threats posed by Iran’s nuclear ambitions, ballistic missile arsenal and support for terrorism as reported by CBS News. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer expressed concern over another “endless and costly war in the Middle East” and called for the Trump administration to provide Congress with more details regarding the scope and immediacy of the threat according to CBS News.

US Preparations and Economic Measures

Prior to the military action, President Trump deployed a significant naval armada to the region, urging Iran to negotiate a deal regarding its nuclear weapons program as outlined in a White House fact sheet. The White House also implemented an Executive Order establishing a tariff system on countries that engage in trade with Iran, aiming to protect U.S. National security, foreign policy, and economy according to the White House.

Initial Strikes and Regional Impact

The initial strike in the joint U.S.-Israel operation targeted the offices of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as reported by the Associated Press. Iranian media reported strikes across the country, with smoke visible rising from the capital city according to the AP.