Donald Trump faces backlash over comments on Iranian attacks on California cities

United States President Donald Trump has drawn widespread criticism from both Democrats and Republicans after suggesting at a campaign rally in Nebraska that Iran could target major American cities, according to reports from Al Jazeera and the South China Morning Post. Trump singled out the California cities of Los Angeles and San Diego during his address to supporters. [1][4]

During the rally, Trump told the crowd that citizens should be prepared to make sacrifices to ensure victory in the conflict against Iran, Al Jazeera reported. ABC News Australia reported that California Governor Gavin Newsom swiftly condemned the remarks, calling the president deranged and dangerous as early voting began in the state for the upcoming midterm elections. [1][3]

As FTMQ News reported earlier, the White House defended the president statement, asserting that he was illustrating the grave potential risks posed by a nuclear armed Iran. Los Angeles is the most populous city in California with nearly four million residents, while San Diego is the state second largest city and hosts significant United States Navy facilities. [10][11][15][16]

The remarks sparked outcry across political lines, with several members of Trump own Republican Party joining Democrats in questioning his statements, Al Jazeera and the South China Morning Post reported. Local officials and residents in California expressed outrage over the suggestion that American cities could be sacrificed during military hostilities. [1][4]