President Trump vows continued military operations against Iran following the deaths of three American soldiers, promising retribution.
Trump’s Claims About Iran’s Military
President Trump announced that “the entire military leadership of Iran has been killed, and many of them want to surrender to save their lives. They want immunity. They’re calling by the thousands.” He made these claims in a recorded message at Mar-a-Lago published on his Truth Social platform.
Trump emphasized that “combat operations are currently in full force and will continue until all our objectives are achieved,” stating they have “very strong objectives” aimed at preventing Americans from “having to face a radical, bloodthirsty terrorist regime armed with nuclear weapons.”
America’s Promise of Revenge
“America will avenge their death,” Trump declared regarding the three American soldiers killed by Iran during the operation. He admitted that “there will probably be more American casualties,” adding “That’s how it is.”
The president promised they “will do everything possible to prevent” further casualties and that America will “inflict the most painful blow on the terrorists who have declared war on practically civilization.”
Succession After Khamenei
Regarding the killing of Iran’s leader Ayatollah Khamenei, Trump reported that “cries of joy could be heard throughout Iran” in response to the news.
Trump again called on “Iranian patriots” to “be brave and take advantage of the moment to ‘regain their country,'” assuring them “America is with you. I made you a promise and I kept it.”
Gazeta Wyborcza journalist Robert Stefanicki notes the issue of succession after Khamenei’s death is now prominent. He reports that “in private circles, it is said that the list of candidates for the new Supreme Leader has long been narrowed down to three names, which Khamenei had left in his political will.”
