President Donald Trump announced the launch of Operation Epic Fury, describing it as one of the largest and most complex military offensives ever carried out by the United States and its partners. The operation targets Iran’s Revolutionary Guard facilities, air defense systems and naval assets.

“Over the past 36 hours, the United States and its partners have launched Operation epic fury, one of the largest, most complex, most overwhelming military offensives the world has ever seen. Nobody has seen anything like it,” Trump said.

According to the President, U.S. forces struck hundreds of targets inside Iran.

Trump's Sovereign Wealth Fund: What Could It Mean For Your Money?

“We have hit hundreds of targets in Iran, including Revolutionary Guard facilities, Iranian air defense systems. Just now was announced that we knocked out nine ships plus their naval building, all in a matter of literally minutes.”

Trump confirmed that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is dead.

“Iran’s formerly supreme leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, is dead. This wretched and vile man had the blood of hundreds and even 1000s of Americans on his hands and was responsible for the slaughter of countless 1000s of innocent people all across many countries.”

The President said celebrations were reported across Iran following the announcement.

FREE Gun Law Map: Laws Don't Pause During Social Unrest

“Last night, all over Iran, the voices of the Iranian people could be heard cheering and celebrating in the streets when his death was announced.”

Trump stated that Iran’s military command structure has been dismantled and that numerous commanders are seeking surrender.

“The entire military command is gone as well, and many of them want to surrender into saving their lives. They want immunity. They’re calling by the 1000s.”

He said combat operations remain ongoing.

“Combat operations continue at this time in full force, and they will continue until all of our objectives are achieved. We have very strong objectives.”

Trump noted that three U.S. service members were killed during the operation.

“Earlier today, CENTCOM shared the news that three US military service members have been killed in action.”

He addressed the nation regarding the loss.

“As one nation, we grieve for the true American patriots who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation, even as we continue the righteous mission for which they gave their lives, we pray for the full recovery of the wounded and send our immense love and eternal gratitude to the families of the fallen.”

The President acknowledged additional casualties may occur.

“And sadly, there will likely be more before it ends. That’s the way it is. Likely be more but we’ll do everything possible where that won’t be the case, but America will avenge their deaths and deliver the most punishing blow to the terrorists who have waged war against, basically, civilization. They have waged war against civilization itself.”

Trump described the broader security threat posed by Iran’s weapons programs.

“An Iranian regime armed with long range missiles and nuclear weapons would be a dire threat to every American. We cannot allow a nation that raises terrorist armies to possess such weapons would allow them to extort the world to their evil will not going to let it happen. We’re not happening to us, and we’re not going to let it happen to others.”

He emphasized the strength of the U.S. military.

“The United States has the strongest military the world has ever seen. I rebuilt our military in my first term. There’s never been a military like we possess, and frankly, there’s nobody even close. But we are now using that military for good.”

Trump framed the operation as necessary for future generations.

“We’re undertaking this massive operation not merely to ensure security for our own time and place, but for our children and their children, just as our ancestors have done for us many, many years ago, this is the duty and the burden of a free people.”

He criticized Iran’s leadership for decades of hostility toward the United States and Israel.

“For almost 50 years, these wicked extremists have been attacking the United States while chanting the slogan, Death to America or death to Israel, or both. They are the world’s number one state sponsor of terror.”

Trump issued a warning to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard and security forces.

“I once again urge the Revolutionary Guard, the Iranian military police, to lay down your arms and receive full immunity or face certain death. It will be certain. Death won’t be pretty.”

He also addressed the Iranian people directly.

“I call upon all Iranian patriots who yearn for freedom to seize this moment, to be brave, be bold, be heroic, and take back your country. America is with you.”

The President concluded his remarks by reaffirming his commitment.

“I made a promise to you, and I fulfilled that promise. The rest will be up to you, but we’ll be there to help. Thank you. God bless you to our incredible warriors and God bless the United States of America.”

WATCH:

The opinions expressed by contributors and/or content partners are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Objectivist. Contact us for guidelines on submitting your own commentary.