Trump Escalates Conflict With Direct Threat to Iran’s Supreme Leader

President Donald Trump intensified his rhetoric toward Iran on Tuesday, issuing a direct and provocative threat against Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, further escalating tensions amid the ongoing conflict.

In a social media post, Trump claimed the U.S. had “complete and total control of the skies over Iran” and warned, “We know exactly where the so-called ‘Supreme Leader’ is hiding. He is an easy target, but is safe there — We are not going to take him out (kill!), at least not for now.”

The statement, made just before a scheduled meeting with his national security team in the White House Situation Room, marked a sharp departure from his earlier comments. On Monday, Trump had emphasized preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, saying, “I want to see no nuclear weapon in Iran, and we’re well on our way to making sure that happens.”

But on Tuesday, his tone hardened. Trump warned Iran against targeting American personnel or assets in the Middle East, saying, “We don’t want missiles shot at civilians, or American soldiers. Our patience is wearing thin.”

He also told reporters that any attack on U.S. troops would provoke a swift and overwhelming response. “If they do anything to our people, we’ll come down so hard. Then the gloves are off so beautifully,” he said. “I think they know not to touch our troops. We’ll find out.”