WASHINGTON — Former President Donald Trump said in a statement that Iran could target Los Angeles and San Diego, a claim that the White House has defended as a misinterpretation. The comment, posted on a social media platform in 2026, sparked criticism from the mayors of both cities and raised questions about U.S. foreign policy.
White House defends comment as taken out of context
The White House released a brief statement on Monday, noting that Trump’s remarks were not part of any official policy and that the administration remains committed to protecting U.S. citizens from foreign threats. The statement emphasized that the United States does not encourage or support any foreign power in attacking American cities.
In the statement, the White House spokesperson said that Trump’s words were taken out of context and that the former president’s remarks do not reflect the current U.S. stance on Iran. The spokesperson added that the administration continues to monitor Iran’s missile and drone capabilities and is working with allies to counter any potential threats.
Trump’s comment was first reported by the BBC on Tuesday, 6 October 2026, when the former president posted a brief message on a social media platform. The message suggested that Iran had the technical ability to strike major U.S. cities, including Los Angeles and San Diego. The post was widely shared on social media and prompted swift reactions from city officials.
Mayors of Los Angeles and San Diego responded strongly to the comment. The mayor of Los Angeles issued a statement calling the remark “unacceptable” and “a small price to pay” for the safety of residents. The mayor of San Diego echoed the sentiment, urging the federal government to take decisive action to protect the city from potential threats.
Both mayors called on the White House to clarify its position on Iran and to reaffirm its commitment to national security. They also urged the federal government to increase intelligence and counter‑terrorism efforts in the region.
The White House has not issued a formal policy statement on Iran’s missile and drone capabilities. However, officials have repeatedly stated that the U.S. is working with allies in the Middle East to counter Iran’s growing military capabilities. The administration has also maintained that it will use all available diplomatic and military tools to deter any hostile actions against the United States.
Trump’s comment comes amid heightened tensions between the United States and Iran, following a series of incidents that have raised concerns about Iran’s missile program. The U.S. has imposed sanctions on Iran’s defense industry and has warned that any attack on U.S. territory would be met with a strong response.
In a separate statement, the U.S. Department of Defense reiterated that it is closely monitoring Iran’s missile and drone programs. The department said that it is working with allies to develop counter‑measures and to deter any potential attacks on U.S. soil.
While the White House has defended Trump’s remark as a misinterpretation, the comment has sparked debate about the role of former presidents in shaping public discourse on national security. Critics argue that former leaders should refrain from making statements that could be perceived as endorsing hostile actions. Supporters of Trump say that his comments reflect legitimate concerns about Iran’s growing military capabilities.
The incident has also highlighted the importance of clear communication from the White House on matters of national security. Officials have emphasized that any statements made by former presidents do not reflect official policy and that the administration remains focused on protecting U.S. citizens.
