On March 2, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the next phase of military operations against Iran would be significantly more destructive. He stated that the objective is to dismantle Iran’s ballistic missile capabilities, drone production, and naval fleet, emphasizing that the operation will continue as long as necessary.
Rubio’s comments followed a briefing with congressional leaders from both parties, where he justified the attack on Iran as a response to an imminent threat. He noted that the U.S. was aware of Israel’s plans to strike Iran and anticipated retaliatory actions from Tehran against American assets. Consequently, Washington opted for a preemptive strike.
“We will not sit and wait for an attack to respond,” Rubio said.
According to Rubio, if the U.S. had not acted preemptively, the potential for loss and destruction would have been greater. He mentioned that Congress would have faced scrutiny regarding why the administration did not prevent the anticipated threat.
Rubio indicated that Iran’s targets extend beyond military installations, including airports, hotels, and embassies. He warned that within a year or so, Iran could become invulnerable, estimating that the country produces over 100 warheads monthly, while U.S. allies in the region could only establish six to seven interception systems in that timeframe.
He emphasized that Iran aims to position itself as untouchable regarding its nuclear program, asserting that the operation was inevitable and merely a matter of time.
Rubio characterized the military action as “the right decision for global security,” noting that there are currently no plans for a ground troop presence in Iran, although President Trump has not ruled out that possibility.
Regarding congressional notification, Rubio stated that leaders from both parties were informed in advance. An official notification was sent within 48 hours of the operation’s commencement, in compliance with the War Powers Act. He clarified that no law mandates prior notification before initiating military action, making it impractical to inform all 450 members of Congress.
Rubio acknowledged the potential impact on oil prices, mentioning that the administration has a program to address this, which will be implemented by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. He also noted that the Iranian navy could disrupt 20% of global energy supplies, a significant leverage point for the regime.
“The world will be a safer place at the end of this operation,” Rubio stated.
Military Operations by Israel and the U.S. Against Iran
On February 28, Israel launched an attack on Tehran, the Iranian capital. Subsequently, President Trump announced that U.S. forces had commenced a “major combat operation” against Iran to eliminate what he described as inevitable threats from the Iranian regime. He accused Iranian authorities of financing and training militants in Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and Hamas in Palestine. The military operation aims to “destroy Iran’s missile industry and navy,” ensuring that the country cannot destabilize the world.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) reported launching missiles and drones toward Israel and attacking U.S. military bases in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
In response to the U.S. military actions against Iran, French President Emmanuel Macron called for an urgent meeting of the United Nations Security Council.
The European Union reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining regional security and stability in the Middle East.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that it is justifiable to give Iranians a chance to rid themselves of a “terrorist regime” and ensure safety for all nations affected by attacks from Iran.
On February 28, Trump tweeted that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was dead, a claim later confirmed by the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA).
On March 1, the IRGC announced the commencement of “the most destructive offensive operation in the history of the Islamic Republic” against Israel and “American terrorist bases.” Trump warned the Iranian regime to abandon these plans, threatening a “very strong response” if they did not.
The U.S. and Israel have initiated military operations against Iran, citing imminent threats and the need to dismantle Iran's military capabilities. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the operation's significance for global security, while President Trump warned of severe repercussions for Iran's actions.