Trump Pledges Continued Bombing of Iran Following Reported Leader Killing

The military operation, which officials suggest was planned months in advance despite public claims of a diplomatic path, has resulted in significant casualties. According to the Iranian Red Crescent, more than 200 people have died and 700 have been injured in the ongoing strikes. Recent reports indicate that 80 individuals, primarily children, were killed in an attack on a school in southern Iran. While the US Central Command reported minimal damage to American installations and no US casualties, Iran has retaliated with drone and missile strikes against Israeli and American military bases.

Trump stated via social media that the "heavy and pinpoint bombing" will persist as long as necessary to meet his stated objective of toppling the Iranian government. Critics have voiced sharp opposition, noting that the campaign lacks Congressional authorization and violates international law. Jamal Abdi, president of the National Iranian American Council, warned that the escalation will only deepen the suffering of the Iranian people and destabilize the region. He urged Congress to exercise its constitutional authority to halt the military action and address pending War Powers resolutions immediately.