President Trump's recent comments on Iran have sparked fears of a potential attack on California, with major military installations and aerospace contractors in the state.
The comments, made during a campaign rally, suggested that Iran could 'take out' Los Angeles and San Diego, with Trump stating 'It's a small price to pay for keeping the world safe, keeping our country safe.'
“After sending the National Guard and Marines to occupy California, Donald Trump is now saying our foreign enemies should ‘take out’ Los Angeles and San Diego. ... He is deranged and dangerous.” — Gavin Newsom, per Los Angeles Times
What's at Stake in California?
California is home to major military installations, including the U.S. Space Force's Space Systems Command Headquarters in Los Angeles, as well as aerospace contractors such as Lockheed Martin, Boeing, and Northrop Grumman.
San Diego, in particular, has a significant military presence, with major installations in and around the city.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass called Trump's remarks 'dangerous,' while Sen. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) criticized Trump for his comments.
- Los Angeles is home to 13 million people, according to Democrat Xavier Becerra.
- San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria wrote 'San Diego is not collateral damage.'
Iran's Capabilities: A Threat to California?
Iran has a self-imposed limit on its ballistic missile program, limiting the range to 1,240 miles.
In March, Iran launched missiles toward Diego Garcia, an Indian Ocean island.
However, there's no credible intelligence to support a surprise drone attack in California.
California Leaders Respond to Trump's Comments
The comments have also sparked concerns among local residents, with some expressing fear for their safety.
Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda Solis said, 'We cannot afford to be complacent and assume that we are safe from the threat of terrorism.'
San Diego County Supervisor Nathan Fletcher added, 'We must remain vigilant and take all necessary precautions to protect our communities.'
The comments have also raised questions about the potential consequences of a military conflict with Iran, with some experts warning of the potential for widespread destruction and loss of life.
According to a report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a military conflict with Iran could result in significant economic losses, including damage to infrastructure and disruption of global trade.
The report also notes that a conflict with Iran could have significant humanitarian consequences, including the displacement of civilians and the destruction of critical infrastructure.
As the situation remains uncertain, California leaders are urging residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their communities.
The situation is being closely monitored by the state's emergency management officials, who are working to ensure that all necessary measures are in place to protect the public.
According to a statement from the California Governor's Office, 'The safety and security of Californians is our top priority, and we will continue to work closely with federal and local authorities to ensure that all necessary measures are taken to protect our communities.'
Vera Ellis’ View
As a California reporter, I'm still trying to wrap my head around President Trump's comments suggesting Iran 'take out' Los Angeles and San Diego. It's staggering to think that he'd even consider letting a foreign power harm our state, let alone our major cities. The fact that he framed it as a 'small price to pay' for national security is particularly disturbing. It's a reckless and irresponsible approach to foreign policy, and it's no wonder that local leaders like Mayor Bass and Senator Schiff are speaking out against it. What's missing from this conversation is a clear understanding of the human cost of such an attack. Thirteen million Californians call LA and San Diego counties home, and the thought of them being caught in the crossfire is unbearable.
Sources
- Los Angeles Times: Trump suggests letting Iran 'take out' Los Angeles, San Diego during campaign rally
- CBS News: Trump suggests letting Iran "take out" L.A., San Diego during rally Updated 19m ago
