Iran-Israel Conflict: Trump Claims Military Strikes Aim for Iranian Freedom

Amidst escalating military tensions in the Middle East, US President Donald Trump has issued a significant statement regarding the recent strikes on Iran. In a telephonic conversation with the Washington Post on Saturday, Trump clarified that the primary objective of the military operations against Tehran is to ensure 'freedom' for the Iranian citizens. This statement followed a series of large-scale joint air strikes by Israeli and US forces on several strategic locations within Iran. The operations reportedly targeted areas adjacent to the official residence of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and a school in eastern Iran. According to official reports, these military actions have resulted in the deaths of at least 50 people.

Trump’s Statement on Freedom and Military Surrender

President Donald Trump, while expressing his stance on the conflict, stated that his administration's goal is to see a free and secure Iran. He emphasized that the military intervention was a necessary step toward achieving long-term stability for the Iranian people, while prior to the commencement of the strikes, Trump had issued a stern warning to the Iranian armed forces, calling on them to lay down their weapons and surrender. He offered a choice between concessions for those who surrender and 'certain death' for those who resist. Trump urged Iranian civilians to seek safety, describing the operation as a historic opportunity for the public to reclaim control over their government.

Satellite Evidence of Damage to Khamenei’s Compound

High-resolution satellite imagery released by Airbus Defence and Space has revealed the extent of the devastation in Tehran. The images, captured following the strikes on Saturday morning, show widespread destruction within the official compound of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The imagery depicts several collapsed buildings and a massive plume of black smoke rising from the high-security government complex, while experts noted that key structures within the compound, which have long served as the central hub for Iranian leadership and official operations, appear to be severely damaged or destroyed. This compound was considered one of the most fortified locations in Iran, and the successful strike marks a significant breach of its security.

Allegations of Civilian Casualties and School Strikes

Iranian Foreign Minister Sayyid Abbas Araghchi has strongly condemned the military action, leveling serious allegations against the joint forces. According to Araghchi, the strikes didn't solely target military installations but also hit civilian infrastructure, while he claimed that a primary school for girls in eastern Iran was struck, resulting in dozens of fatalities. Iranian officials have labeled these actions as a violation of international law, while conversely, the US and Israeli military commands have maintained that the strikes were precision-based and aimed at neutralizing specific military threats. This escalation follows weeks of high-stakes nuclear negotiations and increased military posturing across the region.

Iranian Retaliation Against US Military Bases

In response to the joint US-Israeli strikes, Iran launched retaliatory attacks within hours. The Iranian military targeted US military bases located across the Middle East, signaling a direct confrontation. This retaliation has heightened fears of a full-scale regional war. Iran has stated that it remains prepared to defend its sovereignty against any external aggression. Meanwhile, global powers, including India, have expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation and have called for immediate de-escalation. The ongoing military activities have begun to impact global oil markets and diplomatic channels, as both sides continue to mobilize forces in the region.