During a media briefing at the NATO summit in the Netherlands, US President Donald Trump discussed recent global developments, praising the summit’s outcomes and addressing concerns over ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
Calling the summit “very wonderful,” Trump highlighted increased defense spending by NATO allies, noting that collective defense budgets had risen by $700 billion. He encouraged further investment in military capabilities.
Iran-Israel Conflict and Ceasefire
Trump declared the 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel as effectively over, crediting his administration for facilitating the ceasefire, which he termed a major success. He remarked that both countries were “tired and exhausted,” although he cautioned that renewed hostilities could still occur in the future.
US Strikes on Iranian Nuclear Sites
The president emphasized the effectiveness of US airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, particularly the Fordow facility, which he claimed was completely destroyed. In response to intelligence reports suggesting only a temporary setback to Iran’s nuclear program, Trump dismissed the assessments as inaccurate. He asserted that even Iranian officials had acknowledged significant damage.
Trump also mentioned personally speaking with the pilots involved in the operation, describing their execution of the mission as flawless. He pushed back against media criticism, defending the military’s performance.
Upcoming Dialogue with Iran
Trump confirmed that US and Iranian representatives are set to engage in talks next week, possibly leading to a new agreement. He downplayed his enthusiasm for negotiations, asserting that Iran’s nuclear capabilities had already been neutralized.
Iran’s Missile Strike on US Base
The president also addressed Iran’s retaliatory missile attack on Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, portraying it as largely symbolic. He noted that all 14 missiles fired by Iran were intercepted by US defense systems. Trump recounted that Iran gave prior warning of the attack, allowing personnel to evacuate safely, with only gunners remaining on site.
Acknowledgment of Pakistan’s Role
Trump commended Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Asim Munir, calling him an inspiring leader. He revealed that Munir had recently visited Washington for discussions on regional security. Trump claimed that his intervention helped prevent potential conflict between India and Pakistan by leveraging trade negotiations to encourage de-escalation.
Views on Russia-Ukraine Conflict
On the situation in Eastern Europe, Trump expressed concern, stating that the Russia-Ukraine war remains one of the most challenging issues to resolve diplomatically.
Support from Gulf States
Trump disclosed that Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates had committed billions in investment following the Iran-Israel ceasefire, signalling renewed economic engagement in the region.
