WASHINGTON D.C April 30, 2026 – The U.S. Department of State on Thursday released a video statement from President Donald J. Trump declaring that America’s military campaign against Iran has successfully eliminated the regime’s ability to develop nuclear weapons.
“The bottom line for the world is you cannot let Iran have a nuclear weapon,” Trump said in the clip posted to the official State Department X account. “If you agree with this, then what I did has been executed perfectly because our military has decimated them.”
The remarks come more than two months after the launch of Operation Epic Fury on Feb. 28, 2026. The U.S.-led operation, conducted in coordination with Israel, targeted Iran’s ballistic missile and drone programs, naval forces, air defenses, nuclear-related sites, and proxy networks. According to the White House and Pentagon, the core military objectives were achieved within 38 days, leading to a ceasefire agreement in early April that included the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine have described the operation as a “laser-focused” success that dismantled Iran’s offensive capabilities and prevented the reconstitution of its power-projection forces. The administration has repeatedly framed the strikes as necessary self-defense and collective defense of Israel, citing Iran’s long-standing nuclear ambitions, ballistic missile development, and support for regional proxies.
As of April 30, U.S. officials maintain that Iran no longer possesses the infrastructure to rapidly advance toward a nuclear weapon, though Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stressed that preventing any future nuclear breakout remains a “core issue.” Ongoing diplomatic efforts are focused on a broader peace agreement, with the Trump administration rejecting partial deals that do not include verifiable nuclear concessions.
Iranian officials have claimed the regime retains enriched uranium stockpiles and has begun limited reconstruction efforts, while some Iranian opposition voices abroad are urging the U.S. to press for full regime change.
The State Department’s release of Trump’s statement underscores the administration’s position that the military phase of the confrontation has met its strategic goals and that the focus now shifts to enforcing long-term denuclearization.
President Trump has scheduled briefings with military leaders on potential follow-on actions should Iran fail to comply with ceasefire terms or resume prohibited activities.
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