U.S. and Israel Enter War With Iran

By Emily Markin

Since Feb. 28, the United States and Israel have carried out continuous large-scale strikes on Iran, killing at least 1,332 people.

Many attacks have taken place in Tehran, the country’s capital city, specifically targeting oil storage depots, refining facilities, and the Mehrabad airport. 

These strikes in Iran were launched without approval from Congress, going against Article 1 of the Constitution, which states that Congress has the power to declare war, not the president. This breach of power has sparked disputes among both Democrats and Republicans.

Among those killed was the Iranian Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Other high-ranking Iranian leaders have also been reportedly killed, though not confirmed. Along with this, countless civilians have been killed in the crossfire. Following the Iranian Supreme Leader’s passing, Khamenei’s son, Mojtaba Khamenei, has been chosen as the new Supreme Leader by the Iranian Assembly of Experts. 

These strikes on Iran are presumed to have been caused by rising tensions after U.S. negotiations with Iran to limit their nuclear programs had failed. Prior to the initial attacks on Feb. 28, President Donald Trump had repeatedly threatened the Iranian government and leaders.

However, in a video posted on Truth Social, Trump clearly stated that he wants Iran’s religious leadership to fall after ruling for 47 years. He addressed the Iranian people, telling them to seek shelter during the bombing, adding, “When we are finished, take over your government. It will be yours to take. This will be, probably, your only chance for generations."

In addition to this, while laying out his plans for U.S. involvement in this war, Trump stated that "we are going to destroy their missiles and raze their missile industry to the ground. It will be totally, again, obliterated," adding, "We're going to annihilate their navy."

The White House stated that the war campaign may last four to six weeks, while Trump stated that the war would continue for “a little” while, as it was going “unbelievably well” for the U.S. military. However, conflicts between the U.S. and Iran have continued past the initial four to six-week estimate. 

On March 21, Trump threatened to destroy Iran’s energy infrastructure if it refused to open the Strait of Hormuz, creating a post on Truth Social that stated the U.S. would “hit and obliterate” Iranian power plants, “starting with the biggest one first” if Iran did not fully open the strait within 48 hours. 

However, this deadline has been continuously delayed since then. Ceasefire proposals have been discussed by both the U.S. and Iran, but neither country has come to a ceasefire agreement as of May 11.

The continuation of this war brings thousands of deaths, mass destruction, and climbing oil prices, leaving people all over the world wondering when, or if, peace will be achieved.