In response to these events, U.S. President Donald Trump delivered an eight-minute video address. He emphasized the following points:
“We are striving to protect the American people by eliminating the immediate threat posed by the regime in Iran, which consists of a group of brutal and dangerous individuals.
Over the past few years, representatives of this regime have repeatedly attacked American troops stationed in the Middle East. This is mass terrorism, and we will no longer tolerate it.
Iran ranks first among states that support terrorism and has recently killed tens of thousands of its own citizens during protests. The policy of our government, including my administration, has always been to ensure that this terrorist regime does not acquire nuclear weapons.
After the attacks carried out by the U.S. last year, Iranian authorities attempted to revive their nuclear program and develop long-range missiles that could threaten our allies in Europe, our troops abroad, and ultimately even U.S. territory.
We intend to destroy their missiles and dismantle their missile industry. It will be completely destroyed. Their naval fleet will also be destroyed.
We realize that the lives of American heroes may be lost, and we may face casualties, which often happens during war. But we do this for the future. And it is a noble mission.”
Addressing the Iranian military, Trump said: “You must lay down your arms and seek protection, or you face imminent death.”
The President also addressed the peaceful citizens of Iran: “Stay safe. Do not leave your homes. It is very dangerous outside, and bombs will be falling everywhere. When we complete our mission, take control of your country. It will be yours. This may be your only chance in many years... The time to act has come. Do not miss it.”
Amid the escalating tensions, Israel hacked the popular Iranian prayer time app "Bad Sabah," adding calls for the overthrow of the Iranian regime under the headline "Help Has Arrived," reports Ynet.
