A major U.S. and Israeli military campaign against Iran over the weekend has sparked strong reactions in Washington, D.C., and across the region. The strikes targeted key Iranian military and nuclear infrastructure, and officials report that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in the initial attacks.
President Donald Trump said the operation aimed to eliminate what he called imminent threats from Iran’s regime and its nuclear program.
The escalation has raised fears of a broader conflict after Iran responded with missile and drone attacks across the Middle East, targeting countries that host U.S. bases.
In Washington D.C., reactions have been mixed, with some people supporting the strikes and others warning of another prolonged war.
Sarah Gurren, 35, grew up during the aftermath of 9/11, says many people from her generation are wary of conflict in the region.
“I think the majority of folks my age or older have a bad taste about any involvement in the Middle East,” said Gurren.
Despite concerns about war, many citizens remain hopeful about what the operation could mean for the citizens of Iran.
“Nobody likes a war,” said Sarah Currea a Florida International University government relations student. “I’m worried for the people of Iran, specially the women who have been suffering the most.”
U.S. officials say the campaign could continue for weeks, and with Iran and regional partners vowing retaliation.
