Daijiworld Media Network - Washington
Washington, Feb 28: US President Donald Trump has indicated that the objective of ongoing American military strikes in Iran is to topple the country’s ruling establishment, urging Iranians to view the unfolding situation as a historic opportunity to reclaim control of their government.
In an eight-minute video address confirming U.S. military action, Trump spoke directly to members of Iran’s security apparatus, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), the armed forces, and the police. He issued a stark warning, calling on them to lay down their weapons.
“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.
Reiterating the message, Trump added, “Lay down your arms. You will be treated fairly with total immunity, or you will face certain death.”
The President also addressed the Iranian public, urging civilians to remain indoors during the strikes while portraying the military campaign as an opening for political transformation.
“To the great, proud people of Iran, I say tonight that 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,” he said.
“When we are finished, take over your government. It will be yours to take. This will be probably your only chance for generations,” Trump continued, framing the current moment as a rare chance for regime change.
Appealing to what he described as longstanding appeals from segments of the Iranian population, Trump said, “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.”
He concluded by urging decisive action: “Now is the time to seize control of your destiny and to unleash the prosperous and glorious future that is close within your reach. This is the moment for action. Do not let it pass.”