U.S. President Donald J. Trump has claimed that the U.S. military carried out a massive airstrike on Iranian targets, saying the operation “completely obliterated” military installations on Kharg Island, a strategic oil hub in Iran.
In a statement, Trump said the strike was executed by United States Central Command on his directive and described it as “one of the most powerful bombing raids in the history of the Middle East.”
According to him, U.S. forces targeted military assets on the island but deliberately spared its oil infrastructure, saying the decision was made “for reasons of decency.”
Trump, however, issued a stark warning that the restraint could be reversed if Iran or any actor attempts to disrupt shipping through the critical Strait of Hormuz.
“If Iran or anyone interferes with the free and safe passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz, I will immediately reconsider this decision,” he said.
The U.S president also boasted about the strength of the U.S. military, saying it had been rebuilt into the “most lethal, powerful and effective force anywhere in the world” during his leadership.
He further insisted that Iran lacks the capability to defend against American attacks and reiterated his longstanding position that Tehran must never obtain nuclear weapons.
“Iran will never have a nuclear weapon, nor the ability to threaten the United States, the Middle East, or the world,” he said, urging Iran’s military to “lay down their arms and save what remains of their country.”
