Trump: Iran Nuclear Capability Would Lead to Israel's Annihilation

U.S. President Donald Trump stated in a Fox News interview that the conflict with Iran, now in its seventh month, will conclude shortly after the November midterm elections. He expressed full confidence in his decision to launch the offensive, saying he would make the same choice again and does not believe in regret, though he acknowledges the possibility of self-doubt. Trump dismissed claims of frustration among his supporters regarding the prolonged conflict, asserting they are proud he is preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, which he claims to have "destroyed their nuclear capability."

Trump warned that if Iran had obtained nuclear weapons, its leadership, which he described as "crazy," would have used them to "annihilate Israel," the Middle East, and potentially American cities. He asserted U.S. control over the Strait of Hormuz, referring to it as the "Strait of Trump," and noted that American forces had removed 22 ships and neutralized nine Iranian tankers from the area.

He suggested that electoral considerations might be influencing the decision not to escalate the current military action. Trump also claimed that most of Iran's missile production capability has been destroyed and that the U.S. military successfully intercepts most of its remaining missile launches. He reiterated his commitment to preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons at any cost, boasting about U.S. military strength and stating that Iran is "folding everywhere."

These remarks follow earlier statements by Trump alleging Tehran's attempts to influence the upcoming elections. Republicans are also facing public criticism over rising oil and gas prices, a significant issue in the current election campaign. The U.S.-Iran war began on February 28, leading to Iranian retaliation against Israel and Gulf states. An initial ceasefire agreement in June collapsed quickly due to disputes, particularly over control of the Strait of Hormuz.