Trump vows revenge as US troops killed in Iran strikes | World | News
Donald Trump has vowed to avenge the deaths of American troops and warned military operations against Iran will continue at “full force” until US objectives are achieved. In a six-minute video posted on Truth Social, the US president confirmed three service personnel had been killed and admitted further casualties were likely.
“Sadly, there will likely be more,” he said. “America will avenge their deaths.” Earlier he told NBC News: “We have three but we expect casualties. But in the end it’s going to be a great deal for the world.” The Pentagon said three unidentified US troops were killed and five others seriously wounded during strikes on Iranian targets.
Mr Trump claimed “hundreds” of targets inside Iran had already been hit, including nine warships, and said the campaign was “ahead of schedule”.
“Combat operations continue at this time in full force, and they will continue until all of our objectives are achieved,” he said.
He also said US and Iranian officials “are talking”, although he did not provide further details.
Trump also described the late Ali Khamenei as a “wretched and vile man”, accusing him of having the blood of Americans and other innocent people on his hands.
He added the US was mourning the three service members who had “made the ultimate sacrifice”, warning that further casualties were likely.
In a five-word warning, he said: “America will avenge their deaths.”
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This marked the first time the White House boss had spoken publicly since addressing the nation the previous day.
He insisted Iran must never be allowed to develop long-range missiles or nuclear weapons.
“We cannot allow a nation that raises terrorist armies to possess such weapons,” he said, warning it could otherwise “extort the world to their evil will”.
Mr Trump urged Iran’s military and police to “lay down your arms” in exchange for immunity “or face certain death”.
He also called on Iranian citizens to “seize this moment”, adding: “Be brave, be bold, be heroic, and take back your country. America is with you.”
Sir Keir Starmer also addressed the UK in a similar manner, confirming Britain had authorised the US to use its military bases but stressing the country is not directly involved in the ongoing US-Israeli strikes on Iran.
