The U.S. military has initiated significant airstrikes against targets in Iran following an order from President Donald Trump. This operation, carried out by Central Command (CENTCOM), commenced at 5:15 PM Eastern Time and is described as a defensive measure against ongoing Iranian aggression.
CENTCOM announced that the strikes aim to compel Tehran to engage in peace negotiations. President Trump has accused Iran of manipulating the U.S. during talks, asserting that the current situation is untenable. “We will attack them, attack them very hard,” Trump stated during a press briefing in the Oval Office.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegset emphasized the scale of the operation during his visit to CENTCOM’s headquarters in Florida, indicating that the military is prepared for extensive action against Iran. He remarked, “This evening, CENTCOM will have a lot of work, as we intend to deliver a powerful blow to Iran. Iran has a chance to reach a great deal, but they have shown no willingness to do so. American bombs will fall on key sites in Iran one after another. This is not to reignite war but to set the terms for an agreement. If we have to negotiate with bombs, we will do so. Tonight, we will strike them hard, and hopefully, Iran will make the right decision.”
According to Axios sources, the selected targets are primarily located in southern Iran and include air defense systems, radar installations, and drone command centers. In response, the Iranian news agency Tasnim reported that a military source promised a “harsh response” to Washington’s actions. Previously, Iran’s president stated that Trump’s threats reflect desperation rather than strength.
This escalation follows recent events where the U.S. conducted strikes on Iranian radar and air defense facilities after an American Apache helicopter was shot down. In retaliation, Iran launched several missiles and drones targeting U.S. military bases in the region. On June 10, President Trump held a national security team meeting to discuss military actions in Iran, considering a large but short-term operation aimed at altering Tehran’s stance in negotiations.
The U.S. military has launched airstrikes on Iranian targets in a significant escalation of tensions, aiming to compel Tehran to negotiate. This operation follows recent Iranian attacks on U.S. assets and reflects ongoing hostilities in the region.
Source: Axios