President Donald Trump told the nation the Iran attacks on Iraqi military bases did not kill any American or Iraqi soldiers.
He also noted that “Iran appears to be standing down, which is a good thing for all parties concerned and a very good thing for the world.”
Trump then spoke about Qassem Soleimani, calling him “the world’s top terrorist.” He also claimed Soleimeni planned “new attacks on American targets” right before the military took him out:
“He trained terrorist armies, including Hezbollah, launching terrorist strikes against civilian targets. He fueled bloody civil wars all across the region. He viciously wounded and murdered thousands of US troops, including the planting of roadside bombs that maim and dismember their victims.”Trump said Soleimani directed the recent attacks on US personnel in Iraq that “badly wounded four service members and killed one American” and he orchestrated “the violent assault” on the US Embassy on Baghdad.
Trump encouraged America’s allies to “break away” from the Iran nuclear deal in order to form a better “deal with Iran that makes the world a safer and more peaceful place.”
Iran will receive new sanctions in light of Tuesday’s attack. Trump insisted these sanctions will remain in place “until Iran changes its behavior.” He did not provide details on the sanctions.
Trump ended his speech speaking to the Iranian people:
“Finally, to the people and leaders of Iran, we want you to have a future and a great future, one that you deserve,” Trump said. “One of prosperity at home and harmony with the nations of the world.”The United States is ready to embrace peace with all who seek it,” Trump added.
***Previous reporting…
Iran blasted dozens of missiles at two Iraqi military bases hosting the U.S. military on Tuesday night. Iran is retaliating over the attack that killed Wassem Soleimani.
Officials did not report any casualties.
Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei promised more attacks in an effort to force American troops out of the region.
Khamenei said Iran gave the U.S. “one slap” last night, but explained that these “military actions are not enough as far the importance of retaliation is concerned.”
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