'Lay down arms or face death': Trump's ultimatum to Iran; US Prez says 'bombs will be dropping everywhere'

“A short time ago, the United States military began major combat operations in Iran. Our objective is to defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime,” Trump said in a video address.

Accusing Tehran of hostility toward Washington for decades, Trump added, “We’re not going to put up with it any longer.”

The US President warned members of Iran’s armed forces, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, to lay down their weapons in exchange for immunity.

“To the members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard, the armed forces, and all of the police, I say tonight that you must lay down your weapons and have complete immunity, or, in the alternative, face certain death,” he said.

Trump also issued a strong warning about further military escalation, stating that US forces would target Iran’s missile capabilities and naval infrastructure.

“We are going to destroy their missiles and raze their missile industry to the ground. It will be totally obliterated. We’re going to annihilate their navy,” he said.

Acknowledging the possibility of American casualties, Trump said the military action was aimed at ensuring long-term peace and security.

“The lives of courageous American heroes may be lost, and we may have casualties. That often happens in war. But we’re doing this not for now. We’re doing this for the future, and it is a noble mission,” he said.

Trump also addressed Iranian civilians directly, urging them to remain indoors due to the danger posed by ongoing military operations.

"The hour of your freedom is at hand. 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. It will be yours to take," he said.

The escalation follows confirmation from Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz that Israel had launched strikes on Iran.

Multiple Iranian cities were reportedly hit, including the capital, Tehran. Missiles struck areas including University Street and Republic Square, according to media reports.

Iran’s state-run news agency IRNA reported thick smoke rising over parts of Tehran, with explosions heard at multiple locations.

Meanwhile, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has reportedly been moved to a secure location following the strikes.

The developments mark a major escalation in the conflict, raising fears of a broader war in the Middle East.