On Saturday, President Donald Trump announced that the United States had launched “major combat operations” in Iran. The strikes, carried out with Israeli forces, came after months of failed talks over Tehran’s nuclear program.
Trump posted an eight-minute video on Truth Social. He warned that American troops could be killed. “That often happens in war,” he said, adding that the operation was meant to protect the country’s future. He also spoke directly to the Iranian people, urging them to “take over your government” once the attacks ended.
BREAKING: President Trump addresses the people of Iran:
“Stay sheltered, don’t leave your home. It’s very dangerous outside, bombs will be dropping everywhere. When we are finished, take over your government. This will be probably your only chance for generations.” pic.twitter.com/WM7XiKVKva
— The Kobeissi Letter (@KobeissiLetter) February 28, 2026
Top military advisers had warned Trump against the campaign. Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, reportedly said a full-scale strike could cost American lives and drain weapons stockpiles. Trump ignored the warnings. A White House spokesperson dismissed reports that his generals opposed the operation as “100% incorrect.”
Trump denies reports Gen. Caine warned against Iran strikes, calling them “100% incorrect” fake news. Caine sees easy win, per Trump—shreds media spin on war risks (WSJ, NYT).
— The Intelligencer (@Intelligencer41) February 24, 2026
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Many Republicans have spoken out against the strikes. Rep. Thomas Massie said the president must get Congress’s approval for war. Senator Rand Paul echoed the concern, warning that only Congress has the right to declare war. Even some MAGA supporters criticized the move.
Marjorie Taylor Greene called the Trump administration “sick fucking liars” for asking voters how many casualties they would accept. Tucker Carlson described the attack as “absolutely disgusting and evil.” Other far-right figures, including Alex Jones and Andrew Tate, warned of escalating conflict and possible nuclear risks.
Iran has already responded. Missiles were fired toward Dubai, Qatar, Bahrain, and a U.S. Navy base. Many were intercepted by allied forces, but the attacks show how quickly the situation can escalate.
Trump’s decision follows his previous success in Venezuela, where a special forces raid captured Nicolás Maduro without American casualties. But Iran is far stronger, with a bigger military and more regional influence.
President Trump watched the operation from his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida instead of the White House, according to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.
She said he stayed with his national security team and spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu by phone. Before the attacks, Secretary Rubio called members of Congress’s “gang of eight” to brief them.
President Trump monitored the situation overnight at Mar a Lago alongside members of his national security team. The President spoke with Prime Minister Netanyahu by phone.
Prior to the attacks, Secretary Rubio called all members of the gang of eight to provide congressional…
— Karoline Leavitt (@PressSec) February 28, 2026
This mirrors his approach during the Maduro raid.
Featured image via Political Tribune Gallery