Trump’s Remarks About Iranian Missiles Stir Criticism

President Donald Trump again highlighted the possibility of Iranian missiles targeting Los Angeles or San Diego, a day after the White House indicated his earlier statements were misunderstood. During a rally in San Antonio, Texas, Trump remarked, “Let them hit a missile into San Diego or Los Angeles on the way. You want to see a horror show?”

Trump’s comments were similar to those made at a Nebraska rally, where he defended the war with Iran. On that occasion, he mentioned, “They can take out a city. Let ’em take out Los Angeles. Let ’em take out San Diego. This is a very small price to pay.”

Reactions from Californian officials were swift. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria criticized Trump’s statements. Bass posted on X, asserting that a president’s duty is to protect the country, not to encourage potential threats. She emphasized community solidarity amidst such rhetoric.

“The President of the United States suggested that a foreign government attack Los Angeles. His statements against our city are dangerous,” Bass wrote.

Gloria countered the notion of their cities being “expendable,” stating, “San Diego is not collateral damage. We are not expendable.”

Governor Gavin Newsom also criticized Trump’s remarks on X. He labeled them dangerous and potentially treasonous, as they targeted major U.S. cities and crucial naval hubs. Newsom tasked California’s State Threat Assessment Center (STAC) with monitoring the situation for possible threats. STAC provides threat analysis and intelligence sharing for public safety in the state.

The White House addressed the backlash. Communications Director Steven Cheung clarified that Trump meant U.S. cities would have been in danger if Iran hadn’t been stopped. Cheung dismissed media reactions as exaggerated.

During Wednesday’s rally, Trump assured that the U.S. would not permit such attacks, emphasizing protection for American cities.

Newsom reiterated his concerns on X, stating Trump’s threats won’t sway voters towards MAGA candidates, questioning Trump’s mental state.

Debates over Iran’s missile capabilities continue. Experts, including Sam Lair from the Foreign Policy Research Institute, pointed out Iran lacks the missile range to hit the U.S. mainland. Iran’s longest-range missiles can reach only a maximum of 1,200 miles, far short of the over 5,600 miles needed.

During Trump’s rally, ABC News reported several interruptions by protesters while he campaigned for Texas Republican Senate candidate Ken Paxton.