Washington: US President Donald Trump asserted on Monday that recent US military strikes on Iran were crucial in preventing a potential nuclear conflict that could have escalated into World War III. Trump emphasized the necessity of the military action, suggesting it was not merely a discretionary decision but a strategic imperative.
According to Anadolu Agency, Trump stated, "This is a war that there would have been nothing left," highlighting the significance of the US intervention. He argued that the strikes were a "great thing," suggesting that the US had averted a larger catastrophe. Trump further criticized those who support a nuclear-armed Iran, implying they are misguided. He claimed that Tehran's possession of nuclear weapons would have led to the destruction of the broader Middle East, particularly targeting Israel.
Trump attributed the potential nuclear threat to the Obama-era nuclear deal, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), from which he withdrew. He alleged that Iran would have developed a nuclear weapon three years ago under the agreement, with intentions to use it against Israel and subsequently the United States. He also mentioned that the deployment of B-2 stealth bombers into Iranian airspace last June was instrumental in preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon within a month.
In response, Iranian officials have consistently rejected these claims. They have denied any pursuit of nuclear weapons, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi asserting that Tehran's military focus is solely on US military bases and installations in the region, not on neighboring countries.
Trump's justifications for the strikes align with his earlier statements at the onset of the military campaign, where he cited Iran's stockpile of 60% enriched uranium as a significant threat. US envoy Steve Witkoff supported this by stating that the stockpile was sufficient for multiple nuclear devices.
The US-Israeli strikes on Iran, which commenced on February 28, have reportedly resulted in over 1,200 fatalities, including the death of then-Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. The campaign has also claimed the lives of fourteen US service members.
In a separate development, Trump addressed the situation in Cuba, expressing his belief that he could "do anything" with the nation. He described Cuba as a "failed nation" with ongoing discussions between its leaders and the US. Trump criticized former Cuban leaders for their violent governance and suggested that many people wish for a change in leadership.