President Donald Trump lists explicit objectives for the US-Israel offensive against Iran, including preventing a nuclear weapon and destroying military capabilities
WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump on Monday outlined four explicit objectives for the ongoing US-Israeli military offensive against Iran. He sought to counter criticism that the war lacked a clear purpose.
“Our objectives are clear,” Trump told an event at the White House. He said the strikes represented the “last, best chance” to hit the decades-long arch foe.
He listed the first goal as destroying Iran’s missile capabilities. The second objective is annihilating the Iranian navy.
Third, the operation aims to ensure Iran can never obtain a nuclear weapon. Trump described the country as the world’s number-one sponsor of terror.
“Finally we are ensuring the Iranian regime can’t continue to arm, fund and direct terrorist armies outside of their borders,” he stated. This goal prevents Iran from supporting groups like Hezbollah and Hamas.
Trump had previously justified the war by citing Iran’s attempts to rebuild its nuclear program. He also warned Iran could soon have missiles able to strike the United States.
The listing of four specific reasons, including curbing regional militant support, marks a clearer articulation of war aims. US and Israeli forces have struck hundreds of targets across Iran.
These targets include the Islamic republic’s missiles, navy, and command-and-control sites. The offensive continues as the conflict spreads regionally.
