Story perspectives

Defense Officials Say Iran Can’t Strike U.S. Mainland

By Drooid · Oct 6, 2026, 10:59 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

President Donald Trump told a Nebraska rally Iran could take out Los Angeles and San Diego, calling it a small price.
Governor Gavin Newsom posted on X that Trump is deranged and dangerous, advocating an attack on over 10 million residents.
U.S. defense officials said Iran lacks capability to launch a missile attack on the U.S. mainland, limited to 1,240 miles.

History

Historical Context

On 17 January 1991 Iraq launched a Scud campaign, firing 42 missiles at Israel until 23 February to provoke retaliation that might split the U.S.-led coalition. President George H. W. Bush pressured Israel to hold fire, sending Patriot batteries as coalition forces began their ground offensive on 23 February. In 2024 former President Donald Trump warned Iran could strike Los Angeles and San Diego, echoing the earlier exaggerated missile rhetoric.

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Story summary

President Donald Trump told a Nebraska rally Iran could take out Los Angeles and San Diego, calling it a small price.
Governor Gavin Newsom posted on X that Trump is deranged and dangerous, advocating an attack on over 10 million residents.
U.S. defense officials said Iran lacks capability to launch a missile attack on the U.S. mainland, limited to 1,240 miles.

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