11 July,2026 02:11 PM IST | Washington DC | mid-day online correspondent
US President Donald Trump. Pic/AFP
US President Donald Trump on Saturday warned Iran of a massive military response if Tehran attempts to assassinate him, claiming that the US military has "1,000 missiles" ready to strike the country.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said orders had already been issued to the US military to respond in the event of any assassination attempt against the sitting US president.
"1000 Missiles are Locked and Loaded and aimed at the Islamic Republic of Iran, with thousands of more to immediately follow, should the Iranian Government act on its threat, pronounced in many corners of the Globe, to assassinate, or attempt to assassinate, the sitting President of the United States of America, in this case, ME! Orders have already been given, and the U.S. Military is ready, willing, and able, for a one year period of time, subject to extension, to completely decimate and destroy all areas of Iran - PRAISE BE TO ALLAH!" Trump wrote.
Meanwhile, Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi accused the United States of violating the memorandum of understanding (MoU) reached between the two countries.
In a post on X, Araghchi said, "Iran has so far kept its word, unlike the so-called U.S. Treasury Secretary who is violating Para 9 of the MoU. That violation follows other violations and missteps by the United States. Reality check: There can only be mutual compliance."
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf also said Tehran would not yield to US pressure and remained prepared to defend itself if Washington breached the memorandum, according to Al Jazeera.
Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said the country's armed forces remain vigilant and continue to monitor potential threats.
In a post on X, Baqaei said, "In these hot summer days, the valiant defenders of the noble homeland in the armed forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran, on the coasts, islands, borders, and other sensitive points of the country, with vigilant and watchful eyes, keep the enemy's movements under surveillance and safeguard the security and tranquility of dear Iran. We send greetings and salutations to all the brave warriors and valiant defenders of the homeland and the selfless forces who, without fanfare, shoulder the heavy responsibility of protecting this land. The Iranian nation appreciates your sincere efforts, steadfastness, and sacrifices, and takes pride in your powerful presence. May God be your helper and supporter."
Despite the exchange of warnings, senior US officials said discussions between Washington and Tehran have remained productive, according to Al Jazeera.
The United States has maintained that any future agreement with Iran would require Tehran to accept limits on its nuclear programme and transfer nuclear material as part of the proposed deal.
The latest statements come amid heightened tensions between the two countries, even as diplomatic efforts continue to explore the possibility of a broader agreement on Iran's nuclear programme and regional security.
