WASHINGTON — The White House declared on Wednesday that recent U.S. military operations against Iran have successfully crippled the nation’s ability to develop nuclear weapons, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing strategic confrontation. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that Operation Epic Fury has achieved aerial dominance and inflicted severe damage on Iran’s military infrastructure, specifically targeting its ballistic missile and naval assets.
“Our campaign ensures Iran can no longer threaten the United States,” Leavitt told reporters during a White House briefing. “We have destroyed more than 120 Iranian naval vessels and neutralized key facilities. This action directly addresses the nuclear proliferation concerns that have long troubled the international community.” The statement comes amid heightened tensions following President Donald Trump’s authorization of strikes, which the administration frames as a preventive measure against a growing threat.
Leavitt also connected the military campaign to broader geopolitical and economic objectives. She emphasized that securing the Strait of Hormuz — a critical global oil chokepoint — benefits European allies, while noting the U.S. has become a net oil exporter. “One of the President’s guiding principles is fairness,” she asserted, calling on NATO members to shoulder more security burdens. “American taxpayers and military personnel should not bear disproportionate costs for global stability.”
Domestically, the administration faced scrutiny over personnel decisions. Leavitt defended Trump’s nomination of Joe Kent to a counterterrorism role, despite controversy over Kent’s past statements. She dismissed Kent’s subsequent resignation letter as containing “falsehoods” and reaffirmed the administration’s view of Iran as the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism. This stance appears consistent with long-standing U.S. policy designations, as documented by sources like Reuters in their regional coverage.
In diplomatic developments, Leavitt confirmed that President Trump’s planned visit to China has been postponed, with both sides negotiating new dates. “We’re working with them. They have agreed to postpone the trip,” she said, citing scheduling conflicts. The delay underscores the complex balancing act between military engagements and diplomatic outreach in U.S. foreign policy.
The White House’s assertions, if verified, represent a pivotal moment in Middle Eastern security dynamics. However, independent confirmation of the strikes’ full impact on Iran’s nuclear program remains pending, and regional reactions are still unfolding. The administration’s focus on neutralizing Iran’s capabilities suggests a continued hardline approach, with implications for global energy markets and alliance structures.
Source: ARY News