United States President Donald Trump confirmed the strikes in an eight-minute video posted to Truth Social, stating that Washington had begun “major combat operations”. He also called for the Iranian people to take over their government when the strikes were over.

“We are going to destroy their missiles and raze their missile industry to the ground. It will be totally … obliterated. We are going to annihilate their navy. We’re going to ensure that the region’s terrorist proxies can no longer destabilize the region or the world and attack our forces,” Trump said in the video.

“When we are finished, take over your government. It will be yours to take. This will be probably your only chance for generations.

“For many years, you have asked for America’s help, but you never got it … So let’s see how you respond. America is backing you with overwhelming strength and devastating force.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a similar call. “Our joint action will create the conditions for the courageous Iranian people to take their destiny into their own hands,” he said.