Trump in Address Praises Military Accomplishments, Calls on Iran to Surrender and Promises Immunity

US President Donald Trump addressed the nation Thursday evening to announce the launch of Operation Epic Fury, describing it as “one of the largest, most complex, most overwhelming military offensives the world has ever seen.” He said the United States and its partners had struck hundreds of targets in Iran, including Revolutionary Guard facilities, air defense systems, and nine ships along with a naval building, all within minutes.

Trump called Iran’s former supreme leader Ayatollah Khamenei “wretched and vile” and blamed him for the deaths of thousands of Americans and countless innocents worldwide. He said celebrations erupted across Iran after the announcement of Khamenei’s death and that the country’s entire military command had been effectively neutralized, with many seeking to surrender.

The president reported that three U.S. service members have been killed in action, expressing grief for their sacrifice while emphasizing that operations would continue until all objectives were achieved. “America will avenge their deaths and deliver the most punishing blow to the terrorists who have waged war against civilization,” Trump said.

Trump underscored the strength of the U.S. military and its purpose, highlighting that an Iranian regime with nuclear weapons and long-range missiles would pose a dire threat to the United States. “We cannot allow a nation that raises terrorist armies to possess such weapons,” he said.

The President also issued a direct appeal to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard and military police, urging them to lay down their arms in exchange for immunity or face “certain death.” He called on Iranian patriots to seize the moment to reclaim their country, promising U.S. support.

“These actions are necessary to ensure that Americans will never have to face a radical, bloodthirsty terrorist regime armed with nuclear weapons,” Trump said. He framed the operation as a defense of not only the present generation but future generations, invoking the duty of free peoples to protect their children.

Trump concluded by praising U.S. troops and reaffirming the nation’s resolve: “God bless you, our incredible warriors, and God bless the United States of America.”