US President Donald Trump, while en route to Anchorage, Alaska, aboard Air Force One, defended US military actions linked to Iran. Trump asserted that Iran’s military capabilities had been significantly weakened, stating, “We had a total military victory.” He claimed that the US had obliterated Iran’s naval and air assets and reduced its missile production facilities.
Trump mentioned that he had reluctantly agreed to a ceasefire, indicating it was at the behest of other nations, including Pakistan. He remarked, “We really did the cease-fire at the request of other nations. I wouldn’t have really been in favour of it…”
During a broad discussion encompassing Iran, China, Taiwan, and global security matters, Trump hinted at the ongoing availability of diplomatic channels. He noted that Chinese President Xi Jinping concurred with the US stance that Iran should not acquire nuclear weapons. “He feels strongly they can’t have a nuclear weapon,” Trump disclosed regarding his recent conversations with Xi.
Trump emphasized that the US effectively controlled the Strait of Hormuz post the military operations in the region. “They’ve done no business — literally, they’ve done no business in the last two and a half weeks,” he remarked, alluding to Iranian-related shipping activities through the vital waterway.
While indicating a readiness to consider future military actions against Iran if necessary, Trump asserted, “Iran will never have a nuclear weapon, not going to happen.” He also disclosed that talks with China encompassed artificial intelligence cooperation, Taiwan tensions, trade, and denuclearization.
Regarding Taiwan, Trump mentioned Xi’s opposition to any steps towards Taiwanese independence and cautioned against confrontation. He clarified that he had not committed to any specific future US policy direction.
