Just In :US and Israel Launch Major Strikes on Iran — Trump Demands Tehran ‘Lay Down Your Arms or Face Certain Death’ as Conflict Escalates

In a dramatic escalation of tensions in the Middle East on February 28, 2026, the United States and Israel launched coordinated military strikes on Iran in an operation that has already prompted retaliatory missile fire across the region and sparked international alarm.

The offensive — described by the White House as “major combat operations” — targeted Iranian military infrastructure, missile systems and strategic sites, including reported hits on government offices and installations across the country.

The attacks were part of what U.S. officials have framed as a decisive move to halt Tehran’s nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities.

In an eight-minute video address broadcast on social media, President Donald Trump issued a stark ultimatum to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Iranian armed forces and police: “lay down your weapons and have complete immunity, or you will face certain death.”

He also urged ordinary Iranians to remain inside as strikes continue and encouraged citizens to “take over your government” once the bombing ceases.

“This will probably be your only chance for generations,” the U.S. president said, framing the offensive as both a defensive necessity and an opportunity for a potential political shift within Iran.

Trump asserted the strikes aimed to “destroy their missiles and raze their missile industry to the ground” and to eliminate threats he says endanger the United States and its allies.

Iranian authorities responded swiftly, launching missile barrages toward Israeli territory and U.S. military bases stationed in Gulf Arab states.

Sirens sounded across Israeli cities including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, prompting emergency protocols and civilian shelter warnings.

Global reaction has been mixed.

European and United Nations officials called for restraint and diplomatic engagement even as some Washington lawmakers criticized the administration for proceeding without explicit legislative approval.

Meanwhile, regional markets and aviation sectors reacted to heightened fears of broader conflict.

The situation remains highly volatile, with military operations expected to unfold over several days and humanitarian concerns rising as casualties and infrastructure damage continue to mount.