U.S. and Israel Launch Joint Military Operations Against Iran
In a significant escalation, the United States, in concert with Israel, has launched military operations against Iran in response to the latter’s ongoing threats to U.S. military forces and interests globally. Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth stated that the recent actions are aimed at countering Iran’s prolonged aggression.
“We didn’t start this war but under President Trump we’re finishing it,” Hegseth remarked, indicating the administration’s stance on the issue.
The operation, which commenced on Saturday, followed weeks of diplomatic efforts to avert conflict. Despite these talks, the military engagement has led to significant developments, including the death of Iran’s supreme leader, involvement of other Middle Eastern nations, and the loss of four American soldiers in Kuwait.
Hegseth emphasized, “This is not a so-called regime change war, but the regime sure did change. And the world is better off for it.”
Gen. Dan Caine, chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, provided further insights into the military strategy, acknowledging the challenges ahead. “The military objective in Iran will be difficult to achieve, and in some cases, will be difficult and gritty work,” Caine noted. He also mentioned the potential for additional casualties while stressing efforts to minimize losses.
Hegseth outlined the primary goals of the U.S. mission in Iran: “destroy the missile threats, destroy the navy, no nukes.” He dismissed concerns about a prolonged engagement or nation-building efforts.
Caine highlighted the mission’s focus: “to protect and defend ourselves, and together with our regional partners, prevent Iran from the ability to project power outside of its borders.” He explained that the strategy had been developed over months, even years, of meticulous planning.
The initial phase focused on crippling Iran’s command and control systems, naval forces, ballistic missile sites, and intelligence infrastructure, effectively leaving the adversary without the capability to respond effectively.
President Trump, speaking with The New York Times, indicated that combat operations might persist for “four to five weeks” if necessary, until all U.S. objectives are met, though he did not specify these objectives.
For further details, visit the full report and watch the president’s video messages.
This article was originally written by www.npr.org
