Trump Demands Iran's Forces 'Lay Down Weapons' as US Launches Major Military Operation

Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Iran's armed forces, demanding they lay down their weapons as the United States launches a major military operation against the country. According to the US president, the strikes are aimed at destroying Iranian missiles and annihilating its navy.

The operation follows repeated threats from the US and Israel that they would strike Iran again if it continued to pursue its nuclear and ballistic missile programs. Trump told members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard, Iran's armed forces, that they have a choice: surrender and be granted immunity, or face "certain death."

The US president claimed the US had begun "major combat operations" in Iran, warning there may be US casualties as a result. However, he promised the members of Iran's military that if they lay down their arms, they will be spared.

This latest escalation of tensions between the US, Israel, and Iran comes after years of geopolitical rivalry and nuclear disputes. The two allies have repeatedly accused Iran of developing nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles, while Iran has maintained that its programs are for peaceful purposes.

The strikes, which have been widely condemned by the international community, have raised fears of a larger regional conflict. Analysts warn that Iran may retaliate, potentially leading to a drawn-out and bloody confrontation.

As the situation remains highly volatile, the world watches anxiously to see how Iran and its allies will respond to this latest US-led military operation on its soil.

The latest updates and key details on the unfolding situation can be found on The Guardian's live coverage.