Despite Trump's Warning, Israel Strikes Targets in Iran

Israel conducted overnight airstrikes against military targets inside Iran, defying explicit warnings from U.S. President Donald Trump. The Israeli military confirmed that its air force struck targets in the western and central parts of the country. According to Iranian state news agency Irna, the strikes involved air-launched ballistic missiles, and the Mehr news agency reported hearing explosions in the capital, Tehran. Other reports indicated a detonation near Karaj, approximately 40 kilometers outside the capital.

These strikes occurred despite President Trump's direct counsel to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Trump had reportedly urged Netanyahu to avoid further military action, citing proximity to a potential peace agreement with Iran. Trump stated to the Financial Times, "I am in charge. I am absolutely in charge. He is not in charge," suggesting Netanyahu would have little choice but to accept a future deal. Axios reported that Trump had called Netanyahu on Sunday, advising him to hold off on further strikes as a "good deal" was within reach.

The Israeli offensive was a direct response to an earlier Iranian rocket attack on Israel. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard claimed responsibility for that attack, stating they targeted the Ramat David airbase near Nazareth. The Israeli military reported intercepting the projectiles. The Iranian action, in turn, was reportedly triggered by a prior Israeli strike on the southern suburbs of Beirut, Lebanon.

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I am in charge. I am absolutely in charge. He is not in charge.