'Historic leadership': Netanyahu praises Trump as US–Israel launch Operation Lion’s Roar on Iran

"I thank our great friend, President Donald Trump, for his historic leadership," Netanyahu wrote on X.

Backing Trump’s call for regime change, Netanyahu said Iran must not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons.

"This murderous terrorist regime must not be allowed to arm itself with nuclear weapons that would enable it to threaten all of humanity. Our joint operation will create the conditions for the brave Iranian people to take their fate into their own hands," Netanyahu, who called the operation 'Lion's Roar', said.

Multiple Iranian cities hit

Several Iranian cities were reportedly struck in the joint operation, including the capital Tehran.

Missiles hit areas such as University Street and Republic Square, according to media reports. Iran’s state-run news agency IRNA reported thick smoke rising from parts of the capital, with explosions heard at multiple locations.

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

The developments mark one of the most serious escalations involving Iran, Israel, and the United States in recent years, raising fears of a wider regional war.

Trump's ultimatum to Iran's military

Trump confirmed the United States' direct involvement in the military operation and issued a stark ultimatum to Iran’s armed forces.

He warned Iran’s military, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, to surrender or face destruction.

"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," the US President said.

Trump further warned that US forces would destroy Iran’s missile systems and naval infrastructure, signaling the possibility of continued military escalation.