February 28, (THEWILL) — United States President, Donald Trump, has openly framed the ongoing US military strikes in Iran as a potential pathway to regime change, urging the Iranian people to take advantage of what he described as a historic opportunity to reclaim control of their government.
In an eight-minute video statement confirming American participation in the joint US-Israeli air campaign over Tehran and other strategic locations, Trump addressed not only the Iranian public but also key elements of the country’s security apparatus, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), the armed forces and the police.
“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”, Trump declared.
Reinforcing the ultimatum, he added, “Lay down your arms. You will be treated fairly with total immunity, or you will face certain death.”
Turning to the wider Iranian population, Trump urged civilians to remain indoors during the bombardment, describing the moment as both dangerous and historic.
“To the great, proud people of Iran, I say tonight that the hour of your freedom is at hand. Stay sheltered. Don’t leave your home. It’s very dangerous outside. Bombs will be dropping everywhere”, he added.
He went further, linking the military campaign directly to political transformation.
“When we are finished, take over your government. It will be yours to take. This will be probably your only chance for generations”, Trump stated, suggesting that the current conflict presents a rare opening for sweeping change in Tehran.
Appealing to long-standing grievances among segments of the Iranian population, he continued: “For many years, you have asked for America’s help, but you never got it… So let’s see how you respond. America is backing you with overwhelming strength and devastating force.”
Trump concluded his address with a call for decisive action. “Now is the time to seize control of your destiny and to unleash the prosperous and glorious future that is close within your reach. This is the moment for action. Do not let it pass.”
The remarks represent one of the clearest public articulations yet of Washington’s apparent objective beyond military deterrence, signalling support for a fundamental shift in Iran’s political leadership as the air campaign intensifies.
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
