On March 23, 2026, it was revealed that, less than 48 hours before launching a significant strike against Iran, President Trump spoke directly with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. During their conversation, Netanyahu argued that there might never be a better opportunity to eliminate Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, particularly following intelligence briefings indicating key Iranian leaders would be meeting in Tehran.

Netanyahu reportedly framed the operation as a chance to avenge attempts by Iran to assassinate Trump during his candidacy in 2024, including an alleged murder-for-hire plot. Trump's decision to authorize the military action coincided with an increase in U.S. military presence in the region, with many officials believing it was just a matter of time before action was taken.

The operation, known as Operation Epic Fury, commenced with the first attacks on February 28, resulting in the assassination of Khamenei and several other Iranian officials. Trump's administration has characterized this military engagement as necessary to dismantle Iran’s ballistic missile capabilities and end its support for proxy groups in the region.

While Trump's spokesperson emphasized that the decision to strike was uniquely his, Netanyahu's persuasive arguments and the intelligence surrounding Khamenei’s vulnerability played a crucial role in accelerating the decision. As public reactions unfold, the implications of this military operation have prompted discussions on issues of legality and the potential for broader conflict in the Middle East, further complicating the already volatile geopolitical landscape.

The attack has since drawn reactions from various global leaders and sparked debates about the legalities of such a preemptive strike, amid concerns over the potential for escalating hostilities in the region.