President Donald Trump suggested that Iran could attack major California cities like Los Angeles and San Diego, remarks that were sharply denounced by state and city leaders. Speaking at a rally in Grand Island, Nebraska, Trump stated that Iran could "take out" these cities and that the associated high prices were a "small price to pay" for national safety.
California Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, called Trump "deranged and dangerous," stating that the former president was advocating for an attack on millions of US residents. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass described the comments as "irresponsible threats" that could compromise the city's safety, emphasizing that a president's role is to protect the country, not threaten it. San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria asserted that his city was "not collateral damage" and "not expendable."
The remarks, made during a lengthy speech, sparked debate online about Trump's intent, with some suggesting it was a crude joke or a reference to high gas prices rather than a disclosure of intelligence. However, US defense officials have previously indicated that Iran does not currently possess the capability for a direct missile attack on the US mainland. Trump has previously voiced concerns about Iran's nuclear program and its potential to develop missiles capable of reaching US soil.