U.S. President Donald Trump addressed the nation from the White House at 9:00 PM local time, delivering a wide-ranging speech that touched on space achievements, the capture of international leaders, and the current status of the conflict with Iran.
The President opened his remarks by congratulating NASA on the successful launch of the Artemis II lunar mission, praising the four astronauts currently en route to the Moon as "courageous" and "true heroes."
However, the focus of the address quickly shifted to the month-long military conflict with Iran.
Collapse of Iranian Military Might
President Trump declared that Iran’s naval and air forces have been "effectively destroyed" and reported that a significant portion of the country's leadership has been killed.
"Iran’s ability to launch missile and drone strikes has been dramatically crippled," Trump stated, claiming that the offensive has neutralized Tehran’s primary means of regional aggression.
The President extended his gratitude to U.S. allies, specifically highlighting Israel and partners in the Gulf region, for their roles in the conflict. "They have done an extraordinary job," he said. "We will not let them fail."
Nuclear Ambitions and Regional Security
Reflecting on Iran's history of strikes against neighboring nations, Trump reiterated his administration's hardline stance on Tehran’s nuclear program.
"This conflict makes it clear that Iran must never, ever be allowed to possess a nuclear weapon. I will not let that happen," he emphasized.
Trump drew a direct line to his first term, mentioning the 2020 assassination of Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani.
Describing Soleimani as the "mastermind of roadside bombs," Trump noted that while the conversation might be different if Soleimani were alive today, the outcome would be the same: "We would still win—and we would win big."
Venezuela and Energy Independence
In a significant development, the President thanked U.S. forces for the swift capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, an action he said has been "applauded worldwide."
He noted that relations between the U.S. and Venezuela are improving and highlighted a shifting landscape in global energy.
"The United States is no longer dependent on Middle Eastern oil," Trump asserted, citing new trade relations with Venezuela.
He added that nations requiring oil from the Middle East must now take their own responsibility for keeping the Strait of Hormuz open.
A "Successful Investment" in Safety
Throughout the 19-minute speech, Trump framed the war as a necessary step for the security of both the United States and the world.
He labeled the Iranian government as "thugs and killers," citing a 47-year history of "terrorist attacks" and the government's violent crackdown on domestic protesters prior to the war.
The President concluded by describing the military action as a "successful investment" for America’s children and future generations.
"Americans are no longer living under the threat of Iranian attacks or the shadow of nuclear terror," Trump said. "The United States is safer, stronger, and more prosperous than ever before."
Source: BBC
