US President Donald Trump addressed his compatriots from the White House.
Medianews.az presents to readers the transcript of Donald Trump's televised live address on the evening of April 1, Washington time:
“Dear Americans, good evening!
Allow me to begin by congratulating the NASA team and our brave astronauts on the successful launch of the "Artemis 2" mission. This is truly a magnificent event. This flight will surpass the record distance reached by astronauts in space missions so far, will pass the Moon, orbit around it, and return to Earth from such a distance for the first time in history. This is amazing. They are already on their way, and may God protect them. These four astronauts are truly extraordinary and courageous individuals.
As we speak this evening, only a month has passed since the US military launched the “Epic Wrath” operation. This operation is directed against Iran, which we have presented as the number one state in the world supporting terrorism. Over the past four weeks, our armed forces have achieved rapid, decisive, and devastating victories on the battlefield. Such results are rarely witnessed.
Today, the Iranian navy has been effectively neutralized. Their military air forces have been destroyed. The majority of their leaders – along with the terrorist regime they led – are no longer alive. The command and control system over the Revolutionary Guards Corps is currently being dismantled. Their missile and drone launching capabilities have been seriously restricted, their weapons, factories, and missile facilities are being destroyed. Only a small portion of them remains.
There is almost no example in the history of war where an enemy has suffered such clear and large-scale losses in such a short time. Our enemies are losing, and America – as always during my presidency – is winning and now gaining even greater superiority.
Before discussing the current situation, I want to thank our troops for the mastery they demonstrated in capturing Venezuela within a few minutes. This operation was a rapid, deadly strike closely watched worldwide.
After rebuilding our army during my first term, today we have the strongest military force in the world. We are currently cooperating with Venezuela and are practically joint partners. We have established very successful relations in the production and sale of oil and gas. This country has the second-largest reserves in the world after the US.
We are no longer dependent on the Middle East. Nevertheless, we are there to support our allies. We are not forced to be there; we do not need their resources. But we are helping our allies.
Today, I want to report on the important progress our soldiers have made in Iran and explain why the “Epic Wrath” operation is necessary for the security of the US and the protection of the free world.
Since the first day I announced my candidacy for president in 2015, I declared that I would never allow Iran to obtain nuclear weapons. This fanatic regime has been chanting "Death to America" and "Death to Israel" slogans for 47 years. The forces they supported caused the death of 241 Americans in an attack on the Marine barracks in Beirut. Hundreds of our soldiers have been killed by roadside bombs. They participated in the attack on the US “USS Cole” ship and committed countless other serious crimes, including the bloody events in Israel on October 7. This was cruelty on a scale many have not seen before. Recently, this regime killed 45,000 citizens protesting in Iran.
The possession of nuclear weapons by such forces is an unacceptable danger. One of the most violent regimes in the world, behind a nuclear shield, could continue terrorism, pressure, and policies of mass slaughter. I will never allow this.
This problem has persisted for 47 years and should have been resolved long before I came to power. During my presidency, I took several steps to prevent Iran’s nuclear program. First and foremost, during my first term, General Qasem Soleimani was eliminated.
Then I took an important step by cancelling the nuclear deal signed between the Obama administration and Iran. This deal was unsuccessful and dangerous. At that time, the US transferred a large amount of cash to Iran, but these actions yielded no results.
That deal could have allowed Iran to build a large nuclear arsenal. If I had not cancelled that deal, the situation in the Middle East today could be completely different.
My first choice has always been diplomatic means. However, Iran rejected the agreements and continued its nuclear program. Therefore, in June, I ordered strikes against key nuclear facilities in Iran.
“B-2” bombers played an important role in this operation, and the nuclear facilities were completely destroyed. Nevertheless, the regime tried to restore the program elsewhere.
Iran was trying to produce as many and as long-range missiles as possible. Some of their weapons were unexpected. We neutralized all of them.
For years it has been said that Iran must not have nuclear weapons. But without timely action, such statements remain just words.
The objectives of the “Epic Wrath” operation are clear: to systematically destroy Iran’s capabilities to threaten the US and demonstrate power outside the region. This includes the destruction of the navy, air forces, and defense industry.
Most of these targets have already been achieved. Iran’s navy and air forces are effectively neutralized. These measures will significantly weaken Iran’s military power and prevent it from obtaining nuclear weapons.
Our army has demonstrated high professionalism. Such a military operation is rarely observed. The main strategic objectives are about to be completed.
While noting this progress, we also remember the 13 American soldiers who lost their lives in this struggle. Their sacrifice is for the security of future generations.
Thanks to our allies in the Middle East – Israel, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, Kuwait, and Bahrain.
The increase in gasoline prices in the US is related to attacks on Iranian oil tankers and regional countries. This shows that Iran is not a reliable partner.
The US economy is strong and growing. We are currently the world’s largest producer of oil and gas and no longer dependent on the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran has been seriously weakened both militarily and economically. Other countries must play a more active role in ensuring the security of energy routes in this region.
If no agreement is reached, Iran’s main energy infrastructure will be targeted. The US military holds a superior position in this regard.
This conflict has reached results in a much shorter time compared to previous wars. Iran no longer holds the power it once had in the region.
Today, Americans can hope for a future free from the danger Iran has created. The US will be safer, stronger, and more prosperous.
May God protect the US armed forces and bless America. Thank you very much, good night.”