US and Israel Launch Strikes on Iran, Escalating Middle East Conflict

The United States and Israel have initiated strikes against Iran, marking a significant escalation in regional tensions. President Donald Trump stated the joint operation aimed to eliminate threats from the Iranian regime and potentially create an opportunity for regime change within Iran.

Operation Epic Fury and Iranian Retaliation

The US military has named the strikes against Iran “Operation Epic Fury.” Following the attacks, Iran launched missiles toward Israel, according to the Israeli military. An Iranian official warned of a “crushing” retaliation, stating that all American and Israeli assets and interests in the Middle East have turn into legitimate targets. Iran’s State TV reported the country is preparing a “strong response,” with no red lines remaining after the aggression.

Background to the Conflict

This renewed confrontation follows a 12-day air war between Israel and Iran in June 2025, and repeated warnings from both the US and Israel regarding potential strikes if Iran continued its nuclear and ballistic missile programs. The attacks also come amid ongoing negotiations between the US and Iran to resolve the decades-long nuclear dispute.

Trump’s Justification and Call for Regime Change

President Trump cited historical grievances, including the 1979 US embassy hostage crisis in Tehran, and a series of attacks the US has attributed to Iran since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, as justification for the strikes. In a video message, Trump urged Iranians to remain sheltered during the attacks but also encouraged them to “take over your government” once the operation concluded, suggesting this might be their “only chance for generations.”

Scope of the Attacks and Preparations

The initial scope of the air and sea operations was not immediately clear, but a US official indicated the campaign was expected to last for multiple days. Trump had previously increased the US military presence in the region to pressure Tehran into making concessions during nuclear talks, vowing to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. He specifically highlighted concerns about Iran’s development of long-range ballistic missiles, threatening to destroy Iran’s missile industry.

Israel’s Perspective and Coordination with the US

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated the joint attack would “create the conditions for the brave Iranian people to take their destiny into their own hands,” urging them to remove the “yoke of tyranny.” Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz said the attack was preemptive, aimed at removing threats to Israel. An Israeli defense official confirmed the operation had been planned for months in coordination with Washington, with the launch date decided weeks prior.

Regional Impact and Preparations

Explosions were reported in Tehran and sirens sounded across Israel as a proactive alert to prepare the public for potential incoming missile strikes. Israel closed its airspace to civilian flights and shut down schools and workplaces, with exceptions for essential sectors. Iran warned neighboring countries hosting US troops that it would retaliate against American bases if attacked.

Previous US-Israel Action Against Iran

In June 2025, the US joined an Israeli military campaign against Iranian nuclear installations, representing the most direct American military action against the Islamic Republic to date. Iran retaliated by launching missiles toward the US Al Udeid air base in Qatar.

Concerns Over Iran’s Nuclear and Missile Programs

Western powers have consistently expressed concerns that Iran’s ballistic missile program threatens regional stability and could potentially deliver nuclear weapons. Tehran maintains it is not seeking atomic bombs.