US Launches Strikes Against Iran, Trump Vows Further Action
The United States has initiated military strikes against Iran, with President Donald Trump announcing a “massive and ongoing operation” aimed at neutralizing perceived threats from the Iranian regime. The action follows a period of escalating tensions and stalled negotiations regarding Iran’s nuclear program.
Trump Outlines Objectives
President Trump, in an eight-minute video statement, detailed four primary objectives driving the military intervention: destroying Iran’s missile capabilities, annihilating their navy, preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon, and preventing support for militant groups in the region.1 He asserted that Iran posed an “imminent threat” to the US and its allies, claiming they were on the verge of acquiring missiles capable of reaching American soil.1
Negotiations and Prior Conflicts
The military action follows a series of negotiations between the US and Iran that began in April 2025, aimed at reaching a nuclear peace agreement.1 The first round of talks, led by US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, took place in Oman.1 A second round was held in Rome in February 2026.1 However, these negotiations ultimately failed to produce an agreement, and Israel subsequently attacked Iran, escalating the conflict.1
Timeline of Events
- April 12, 2025: First round of negotiations begins in Oman.1
- April 19, 2025: Second round of negotiations held in Rome.1
- February 6, 2026 – February 28, 2026: Second round of negotiations.1
- Early March 2026: US launches military strikes against Iran.24
Trump’s Comments and Future Outlook
President Trump indicated that the current military campaign is projected to last four to five weeks, but acknowledged it could “go far longer than that.”1 He also stated that the “big wave” of the war is yet to come.4 Despite the gravity of the situation, Trump briefly pivoted during a Medal of Honor ceremony to discuss plans for a new White House ballroom.1
Participants in Negotiations
Key figures involved in the negotiations included:
- United States: Steve Witkoff, Michael Anton, Brad Cooper, Jared Kushner
- Iran: Abbas Araghchi, Majid Takht-Ravanchi, Ali Larijani