Washington: US President Donald Trump has issued a strong warning to Iran, saying the United States is prepared to launch an overwhelming military response if Tehran attempts to assassinate him.
In a statement posted on his Truth Social platform, Trump claimed that the US military has already received instructions for a large-scale retaliatory strike against Iran. He asserted that "1,000 missiles are locked and loaded," adding that thousands more could be deployed if any attack targeting him were carried out.
Trump said the military orders would remain active for an extended period and described the response as swift and decisive if Iran acted on what he described as longstanding threats against his life.
The remarks come amid renewed tensions between Washington and Tehran following recent military confrontations and ongoing diplomatic disagreements over regional security and Iran's nuclear programme. Relations between the two countries have remained strained despite intermittent efforts to resume negotiations.
The US president has repeatedly stated that Iran poses a direct threat to him, particularly since the 2020 US strike that killed Iranian General Qasem Soleimani. American intelligence agencies have previously acknowledged concerns over potential threats against Trump, although Iranian officials have denied planning any assassination attempt.
Trump's latest comments have further heightened concerns about escalating tensions in the Middle East, where recent military exchanges have already raised fears of a broader regional conflict. Analysts say such rhetoric could complicate diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing hostilities between the two nations.
No immediate response from the Iranian government was available following Trump's latest statement.