Former US President Donald Trump has asserted that he is the primary target on Iran's kill list, while also taking personal credit for the continued existence of Israel. In a series of statements, Trump claimed that his administration's policies, including the withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal and the relocation of the US embassy to Jerusalem, have made him a top priority for Iranian retaliation.
Trump's Claims on Iran's Kill List
Speaking to supporters, Trump stated, "I am number one on Iran's kill list. They want to take me out because I stood up to them." He referenced the 2020 killing of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani, which he ordered, as a key reason for the heightened threat. According to Trump, his decisive actions have deterred Iran from attacking US interests, but have also made him a prime target.
Credit for Israel's Survival
Trump also took credit for Israel's continued existence, saying, "Israel wouldn't be around if I wasn't president." He pointed to his administration's recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital and the brokering of the Abraham Accords, which normalized relations between Israel and several Arab nations. "I did more for Israel than any other president," he added.
Reactions and Context
Trump's comments come amid ongoing tensions between the US and Iran. The Biden administration has sought to revive the Iran nuclear deal, which Trump abandoned in 2018. Critics have dismissed Trump's claims as self-promotion, while supporters view them as evidence of his strong leadership. Iranian officials have not directly responded to Trump's statements, but have previously vowed revenge for Soleimani's death.
According to security experts, the threat level for former US presidents remains high, but specific intelligence on Iran's intentions is classified. Trump's remarks are likely to reignite debate over his foreign policy legacy and the ongoing risks posed by Iran.
