U.S. President Donald Trump declared that the airstrikes on Iran had eliminated threats against Israel, justifying the military action by labeling Iran as the "epicenter of Middle Eastern terrorism". “They chant ‘Death to America’—many have died because of this hatred,” he said. Trump added that while no further attacks are planned for now, “If Iran does not return to the negotiation table or halt its nuclear program, future strikes will be even more powerful and easier.” However, Al Jazeera's Kimberly Halkett criticized Trump’s rationale as insufficient, suggesting the move may have reduced threats to Israel but escalated anxiety among Americans.