Warning of Direct Missile Threats to the United States
During the State of the Union address at the Capitol on the evening of February 24, President Trump made strong statements regarding the military threat from Iran. He emphasized that Tehran is not only developing missiles that threaten US bases in Europe and the Middle East but is also actively pursuing weapons programs capable of directly striking US territory.
“They are very bad people,” President Trump told Congress, referring to the Tehran regime.
The US leader asserted that airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities last June were insufficient to deter the country's ambitions. He claimed Iran is restarting its nuclear weapons program and continues to pursue nuclear energy for military purposes.
Nuclear Tensions and Diplomatic Negotiations
Negotiations between the US and Iran are scheduled for February 27 in Geneva, Switzerland, led by Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. Previously, Mr. Witkoff warned on Fox News that Iran is “just one week away” from reaching industrial-scale material levels suitable for bomb-making.
In addition to military issues, President Trump cited social media reports of the Iranian government killing tens of thousands of protesters in recent crackdowns. However, Iran has denied all allegations, calling the US President's remarks a disinformation campaign.
Ready for Military Response Options
Prior to the speech, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and CIA Director John Ratcliffe briefed Congressional leaders on potential military actions against Iran. Currently, two US aircraft carrier strike groups are in position in the region, ready to respond to any developing situation.
Although Washington had previously paused attack plans after Tehran announced the cancellation of some death sentences for protesters, President Trump's stance remains firm. He has repeatedly and publicly supported regime change in Iran to ensure regional and global security.
The White House earlier this week also dismissed reports that military leaders had warned the President about the risk of getting bogged down in a prolonged conflict. The US administration continues to maintain maximum pressure while awaiting the results of the upcoming diplomatic rounds in Switzerland.
