U.S. Launches Attacks on Iran, Trump Calls for Regime Change

The United States, in conjunction with Israel, launched a series of attacks on Iran on Saturday, February 28, 2026, with President Donald Trump declaring the start of “major combat operations” and urging the Iranian people to overthrow their government. The strikes targeted locations across Iran, including near the offices of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Trump Announces Military Action

President Trump announced the attacks in an eight-minute video posted on his Truth Social platform. He justified the military action by citing Iran’s continued development of its nuclear program and long-range missile capabilities, claiming these posed a threat to the U.S. And its allies. Trump stated the goal was to eliminate “imminent threats from the Iranian regime.” PBS News and AP News both reported on the announcement.

Calls for Regime Change

In a direct appeal to the Iranian people, Trump urged them to “take over your government.” This call came after previous statements where he indicated a regime change was possible, but not guaranteed. The timing of this appeal coincides with the military strikes, suggesting a strategy to capitalize on potential instability within Iran.

Details of the Attacks

The attacks, carried out in coordination with Israel, reportedly targeted various locations nationwide. Israeli media reported that Supreme Leader Khamenei and Iranian President Massoud Fezeshkian were among the targets, with some reports claiming Khamenei’s body had been found, though this remains unconfirmed. Trump also indicated intentions to “completely destroy their missile industry” and “annihilate the Navy,” as well as disrupt regional terrorist proxies. AP News

Iran’s Response and Previous Negotiations

According to a post on Truth Social, Trump claimed Iran’s initial response to the attacks was “very weak,” as expected. He reported that 14 missiles were fired by Iran, 13 of which were intercepted, and one was allowed to proceed as it posed no threat. Trump also stated that no Americans were harmed and damage was minimal. Truth Social

The military action follows the breakdown of three rounds of nuclear negotiations mediated by Oman. The U.S. Apparently determined that a military strike was necessary to prevent Iran from resuming its nuclear weapons program.

Political Context and Potential Risks

The attacks come amid accusations from Trump that Iran attempted to interfere in the 2020 and 2024 U.S. Presidential elections. He shared a link to a far-right media site referencing charges against members of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps for allegedly hacking his 2024 campaign. The Independent

The operation is considered a “major gamble” with potential for significant risks, including large-scale casualties and a potential counterattack from Iran. Experts have also noted the possibility of domestic opposition in the U.S. Questioning the war’s goals and necessity. Some analysts suggest political calculations ahead of upcoming elections may have influenced the decision to launch the attacks.