02 March,2026 01:34 PM IST | Washington | mid-day online correspondent
In his video address, US President Trump described the campaign as a “righteous mission”. Pic/AFP
US President Donald Trump has said American forces have struck hundreds of targets across Iran, including facilities linked to the Revolutionary Guard and Iranian air defence systems, as the conflict in the region intensifies.
In a video message on Sunday, Trump said US forces had also destroyed nine ships and a naval building "in a matter of minutes". He claimed that Iran's former Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, is dead and that much of the country's military command structure has been eliminated, the PTI reported on X.
He further claimed that many Iranian officials were seeking immunity in exchange for surrender, stating they were "calling by the thousands".
Trump stated that three US military service members had been killed in action. The deaths were earlier reported by United States Central Command (CENTCOM), marking the first known American casualties in the conflict.
"As one nation, we grieve for the true American patriots who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation," the President said, adding that there would "likely be more" casualties before the conflict ends.
The United States and Israel reportedly carried out extensive strikes on Sunday, targeting ballistic missile sites and naval assets across Iran. Explosions were reported in several areas, with blasts rattling buildings and sending plumes of smoke above the capital, Tehran.
Reports state that Iranian officials said more than 200 people have been killed since the beginning of the strikes, including senior leaders.
Iran reportedly responded by launching missiles at Israel and Gulf states. The US military stated that three American personnel were killed during the retaliatory attacks.
In Israel, rescue services said nine people were killed and 28 injured when a strike hit a synagogue in the central town of Beit Shemesh. Police said 11 people remained missing following the attack, bringing the overall death toll in Israel to 11, according to news reports.
In his video address, Trump described the campaign as a "righteous mission" and vowed that the United States would avenge the deaths of its service members. He warned that further casualties were likely before the conflict comes to an end.
The situation remains highly volatile, with fears of a broader regional war as hostilities continue.
(with PTI inputs)
