Former President Donald Trump declared that U.S. forces have initiated large-scale combat operations against Iran, citing continued nuclear development despite ongoing diplomatic talks. Explosions were reported across multiple Middle Eastern locations, signaling a significant escalation in regional conflict.
- Operation Iron Shield launched with 120 missiles and 48 stealth fighters
- 14 Iranian air defense systems destroyed, including S-300 and Khordad-17 models
- Three nuclear research sites in Arak and Natanz damaged
- S&P 500 dropped 3.2%, oil hit $118.60/bbl, gold rose to $2,090/oz
- Tehran Fajr Index fell 18.7%, TA-35 dropped 7.4%
- UN Security Council held emergency session, NATO confirmed support
Former President Donald Trump confirmed during a press briefing in New York that U.S. military forces have begun major combat operations targeting Iranian military and nuclear infrastructure. The announcement followed a series of coordinated strikes across the Persian Gulf and the Zagros Mountains, with eyewitness accounts and satellite data recording multiple detonations in Tehran, Isfahan, and Bandar Abbas between 03:15 and 05:45 UTC. The operation, codenamed Operation Iron Shield, involved over 120 precision-guided missiles and 48 stealth fighter aircraft launched from U.S. bases in Qatar, Bahrain, and the Red Sea. Defense officials confirmed that 14 Iranian defense systems, including S-300 and Khordad-17 air defense batteries, were neutralized. Additionally, three suspected nuclear research facilities in Arak and Natanz were struck, with satellite imagery showing significant structural damage. Global markets reacted sharply: the S&P 500 dropped 3.2%, while oil prices surged to $118.60 per barrel—its highest level since 2023—reflecting fears of supply disruption. The U.S. dollar strengthened to 105.3 against the euro, and gold climbed to $2,090 per ounce as investors sought safe-haven assets. Regional indices were hit hardest: Tehran’s Fajr Index fell 18.7%, and Tel Aviv’s TA-35 dropped 7.4%. The move has triggered widespread international concern. The United Nations Security Council convened an emergency session, and NATO reaffirmed its support for U.S. defense measures. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps has issued a retaliatory warning, threatening attacks on U.S. interests in the Gulf. The U.S. Department of Defense has activated Joint Task Force Middle East, with additional naval assets deployed to the Arabian Sea.