Trump says Iran could destroy Los Angeles or San Diego

Donald Trump said at a campaign rally in Nebraska that Iran “could destroy a city” and named Los Angeles and San Diego as possible targets, remarks that prompted swift condemnation from California officials. At the same event he defended higher prices tied to a confrontation with Iran as acceptable for broader security goals.

Reactions from California leaders

Speaking to supporters as he promoted a projected midterm victory, Trump argued that rising costs caused by a conflict with Iran were "a small price to pay for keeping the US and the world safe," and then warned: "They can destroy a city. Let them destroy Los Angeles. Let them destroy San Diego. It will be over very quickly." The crowd applauded after the remark.

California Governor Gavin Newsom responded sharply, accusing Trump of having first sent the National Guard and marines to "occupy California" and now urging foreign enemies to attack American cities. "He is deranged and dangerous. Let's be clear: the president is advocating an attack on more than 10 million U.S. residents. This is not normal. And we will keep reminding people of that every day," Newsom said.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass called the comments "irresponsible threats that could potentially compromise the safety of the nation's second-largest city," while San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria said his city "is not collateral damage in the president's war." San Diego, the eighth-largest city in the United States, hosts critical military infrastructure.

The comments followed remarks in which Trump has asserted that Iran is developing missiles that soon could reach the United States; the source text notes he raised that claim in his most recent address on the state of the nation.

The episode adds to a pattern of clashes between Trump and California officials and highlights how rhetoric about foreign threats can intersect with domestic politics in the run-up to the November midterm elections.

Photo: AP)