President Trump Addresses Nation; Missile Fire Reported Toward Israel as Situation Rapidly Escalates
Saturday, February 28, 2026, 5:30 A.M. ET. 3 Minute Read, By Jennifer Hodges, Political Editor & Art Fletcher, Executive Editor: Englebrook Independent News,
WASHINGTON, D.C.- The United States and Israel are reportedly engaged in joint military action against Iran early Saturday morning, according to live television coverage and statements broadcast from U.S. leadership as events continue to unfold in real time.
President Donald Trump addressed the American people in the pre-dawn hours from Mar-a-Lago in Florida, announcing what he described as the start of major combat operations targeting Iranian military and strategic infrastructure. The operation has been referred to on air as “Operation Epic Fury,” though formal Pentagon documentation and transcripts are still being reviewed.
The situation remains fluid and fast-moving.
Presidential Address And Direct Appeal To Iranians;
In remarks broadcast across multiple networks, President Trump framed the operation as a decisive effort to neutralize threats posed by the Iranian regime and to protect U.S. and allied security interests.
In a message directed to the Iranian people, the President stated:
“The hour of your freedom is at hand.”
The President also urged Iranian military and police forces to lay down their weapons and assured that those who do so would be treated fairly. He called on civilians to shelter in place as military operations continue.
Full transcripts of the address and any related Truth Social posts are expected to be released later this morning.
Reports Of Strikes And Retaliation;
Live coverage from international and U.S. networks shows reports of explosions in and around Tehran, with additional strikes allegedly targeting Iranian military installations and government facilities. Specific target details, including claims regarding leadership compounds and ministry buildings, have not yet been independently confirmed.
Simultaneously, reports indicate that Iran has launched missiles toward northern and central Israel, triggering air defense responses and civil defense alerts.
Israeli authorities have reportedly instructed civilians to seek shelter as interception systems engage incoming threats.
Confirmed casualty figures, damage assessments, and official target lists are not yet available.
A Conflict With Potential Regional Consequences;
If sustained, this military action marks one of the most significant direct confrontations between the United States, Israel, and Iran in modern history. Analysts have long warned that direct strikes on Iranian territory could trigger broader regional escalation, including proxy responses and retaliatory measures against U.S. assets.
U.S. military officials speaking on air suggested operations may continue for multiple days, though formal briefings are expected later today.
What Remains Unverified;
At the time of publication:
- Englebrook Independent News has not yet reviewed formal written confirmation from the U.S. Department of Defense.
- Specific strike timestamps and named facilities remain under verification.
- Casualty figures have not been confirmed.
- Iranian government response statements are still emerging.
Englebrook Independent News is actively monitoring official releases and will update this report as verifiable information becomes available.
This Is A Developing Story;
Readers should expect rapid updates as official briefings, transcripts, and verified military statements are released.
Englebrook Independent News will continue to provide fact-based, responsibly sourced reporting as the situation evolves.
Editor’s Note:
This report reflects live televised statements and on-air reporting as of the time of publication. In rapidly developing military situations, early details can change as additional verification occurs. Englebrook Independent News is committed to accuracy and will update this story promptly as official documentation and independently confirmed information become available.
