Trump threatens full-scale strike on Iran over assassination threats
Note: AI technology was used to generate this article’s audio.
- Trump says he ordered “full destruction” of Iran if it attempts threats against him.
- US aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln heads to the Middle East amid rising tensions.
US President Donald Trump warned that he has given “very strict” instructions to completely destroy Iran if the country attempts any threats against him, in an interview marking the first anniversary of his second presidential term.
Speaking to Katie Pavlich on News Nation, Trump said the United States would respond decisively to any Iranian threats. “If anything happens, Iran will be destroyed entirely. I issued very strict orders on this matter,” he said.
Criticism of Biden and emphasis on personal defense
Trump criticized former President Joe Biden for not responding more forcefully to Iranian threats during his tenure. He emphasized that a president must defend not only the office but also individuals under threat, saying, “I will respond firmly even if the threats are directed at someone, not the president.”
Read more: Trump threatens 200% tariffs on French wine after Macron rejects “Peace Council”
US military movements
Separately, the Associated Press reported that the US aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln transited the Strait of Malacca en route to the northern Arabian Sea, expected to arrive in the Middle East within 72 hours. During its passage through the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean, the carrier reportedly deactivated its Automatic Identification System, a routine operational security measure.
Rising Iran tensions
Trump’s warnings follow Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian’s statement that any attack targeting Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei would be considered a full-scale act of war. The remarks came amid mass protests in Iran since late December, triggered by worsening economic conditions and later escalating into political demonstrations.
Read more: Axios: Four reasons Trump pulled back from striking Iran
Trump has urged Iranian leaders to focus on governing the country properly rather than attempting to kill thousands to maintain control. His statements come after accusations from Khamenei against the United States and Israel for “sabotage and killings” in Iran.
The developments signal growing volatility in US-Iran relations and raise concerns over potential military escalation in the region.
