Trump’s Remarks on Iranian Missile Threat Stir Controversy

President Donald Trump again invoked the possibility of Iranian missiles hitting Los Angeles or San Diego, a day after the White House said his earlier remarks had been misunderstood.

During a rally in San Antonio, Texas, Trump addressed the issue. “I said it the other day, let them hit a missile into San Diego or Los Angeles on the way,” he stated. The remark followed similar comments made at a Nebraska rally, defending U.S. actions in the conflict with Iran.

On Monday, Trump had remarked, “They can take out a city. Let ’em take out Los Angeles. Let ’em take out San Diego. This is a small price to pay.” Californian leaders condemned his comments. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria firmly opposed treating their cities as expendable.

Bass criticized Trump’s statements, saying they were dangerous and could compromise public safety. “The role of a president is to protect the country,” she emphasized.

Gloria responded, “San Diego is not collateral damage. We are not expendable. And we are never a ‘small price to pay.’” California Governor Gavin Newsom also expressed concern over Trump’s remarks, calling them potentially treasonous.

Newsom requested active monitoring by the State Threat Assessment Center (STAC) in case Trump’s comments are perceived as invites for threats against California.

Meanwhile, the White House sought to clarify Trump’s remarks. Communications Director Steven Cheung stated Trump was highlighting the threat posed by a nuclear Iran. He termed the reaction as a “media freakout.” Trump assured his audience, saying, “We’re not going to let that happen. We protect our cities. We protect our country.”

Governor Newsom continued to voice his objections on social media, accusing Trump of using fear tactics to sway voters.

Amid this controversy, experts like Sam Lair from the Foreign Policy Research Institute explained that Iran lacks missiles capable of reaching the U.S. mainland. They have only publicly acknowledged developing missiles with a maximum range of 1,200 miles, far short of what’s needed to target cities like Los Angeles or San Diego.

Trump’s speech, interrupted by protesters, was intended to support Texas Republican Senate candidate Ken Paxton. The ongoing debate highlights concerns about Iran’s actual capabilities and Trump’s controversial remarks.