The US State Department on Tuesday reaffirmed former President Donald Trump’s firm position on Iran’s nuclear ambitions, stating unequivocally that “Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon,” amid rising tensions between Iran and Israel.
Speaking at a press briefing, State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce emphasized that President Trump’s policy on Iran’s nuclear program has remained unchanged since he first took office. “Now with the conflict between Iran and Israel, President Trump is also clear that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon… He has said this repeatedly, both in office and on the campaign trail,” Bruce stated.
According to a White House release, Trump has pledged on numerous occasions—over a dozen times while in office and more than 40 times during his campaigns—that Iran must never obtain nuclear capabilities. His administration’s actions, including withdrawing from the 2015 nuclear agreement and reimposing sanctions on Tehran, reflect that policy.
To address escalating regional threats and ensure American safety, Bruce announced the establishment of a Middle East Task Force. The task force is responsible for coordinating diplomatic support and issuing safety alerts—over 30 of which have already been disseminated across the region—to keep US citizens informed. Travel advisories remain in effect for Israel, Iraq, and Iran.
“One of the highest priorities of the Trump administration is the safety and security of the American people,” Bruce noted. “This task force plays a crucial role in supporting our diplomatic missions and personnel abroad.”
Bruce also praised Trump’s leadership style, calling him “transparent” and “clear,” and credited him for focusing on peace and national interest. “He is the singular guiding hand about what will be occurring from this point forward,” she said.
Echoing Trump’s emphasis on national sovereignty, Bruce reiterated that each country has the right to shape its own future, with the US ready to assist if requested. However, she avoided direct commentary on the possibility of a US-backed regime change in Iran, leaving that question open.
Meanwhile, the conflict between Iran and Israel continues to escalate, with both countries exchanging strikes for a sixth consecutive day. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has vowed to target “very significant locations in Tehran,” while explosions from incoming Iranian missiles were reported over Tel Aviv early Wednesday.
President Trump, who has previously demanded Iran’s “unconditional surrender,” held a high-level meeting with his national security team to assess the growing crisis, according to the White House.
