President Donald Trump issued a stark warning to Iran on Tuesday, vowing that any attempt to assassinate him or members of his administration would result in the "total obliteration" of the country.
The declaration came as he signed a new executive order imposing economic and diplomatic pressure on Iran to stop its nuclear program and support for militant groups.
"If they did that, they would be obliterated. That would be the end. I’ve left instructions," Trump told reporters in the Oval Office, referencing alleged Iranian threats against U.S. government officials.
Trump criticized former president Joe Biden for not taking a similarly aggressive stance, suggesting Biden’s "lack of intelligence" led to inaction.
The newly signed order directs federal agencies to enforce "maximum pressure" on Iran through sanctions targeting its nuclear activities and funding of militant groups.
Trump was reluctant to sign the order but called the move necessary.
"I’m unhappy to do it, but we have to be strong and firm,” said Trump.
"It’d be great if we could arrange a deal and maybe the world can live in peace.”
The warning follows years of heightened tensions, including a 2020 U.S. drone strike that killed Iranian military leader Qasem Soleimani and recent Justice Department reports of foiled Iranian assassination plots against Trump.
The order revives Trump’s first-term strategy of sanctions, aiming to cut Iran’s oil exports to zero and rally international allies to isolate Iran.
Trump linked Iran’s nuclear ambitions to global instability.
"They cannot have a nuclear weapon,” said Trump.
However, Trump expressed hope the order would stop conflicts.
"Hopefully, this document won’t be very important. It’d be great if we didn’t have to use it,” said Trump.