President Donald Trump has once again signaled his readiness to launch additional strikes against Iran if the country resumes its nuclear program, stating he would act ‘without question.’ The U.S. recently conducted strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, which Trump claimed had ‘completely and totally obliterated’ the sites, though a leaked report from the Defense Intelligence Agency, obtained by CNN and the New York, suggests the damage may be limited to several months of delay.
During a press briefing on Friday, Trump emphasized that the United States would not hesitate to take military action if Iran advances its nuclear ambitions. This follows a recent U.S. military operation that targeted key Iranian nuclear facilities, which Trump claimed had left the sites ‘completely and totally obliterated.’ However, the leaks from the Defense Intelligence Agency raised questions about the actual extent of the damage, suggesting that the strikes may have only delayed Iran’s nuclear program by several months rather than causing permanent damage.
Trump’s remarks come amid rising tensions with Iran and as he faces pressure over the effectiveness of the U.S. response to Tehran’s nuclear activities. The U.S., Israel, and Iran’s Foreign Ministry have all acknowledged that the three nuclear sites struck by U.S. forces have encountered significant damage. However, the Defense Intelligence Agency’s leak indicates the strikes may have had a more limited impact than previously claimed.
Additionally, Trump has criticized Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who declared victory over Israel on Thursday. Trump countered Khamenei’s claims and stated he had spared Khamenei from death, even though he was aware of the leader’s whereabouts. ‘I knew EXACTLY where he was sheltered, and would not let Israel, or the U.S. Armed Forces, by far the Greatest and Most Powerful in the World, terminate his life,’ Trump stated on Truth Social.
Meanwhile, the U.S. is conducting an investigation into the leak of the Defense Intelligence Agency’s report, with the FBI reportedly looking into who shared the document. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth confirmed that the FBI is examining the matter to determine the source of the leak and whether those involved should be held accountable.
Trump’s comments also followed a previous incident in which he criticized Russia’s perceived casual threat to arm Iran with nuclear weapons. ‘That’s why Putin’s the boss,’ he remarked, indicating his frustration with Moscow’s approach to the region.
Despite the military actions, the United States continues to seek diplomatic solutions to the growing tensions with Iran, although the recent strikes have escalated the situation significantly. The implications of Trump’s statements could further affect international relations and the stability of the region.