U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday addressed the Knesset, celebrating what he called the “success” of the June military campaign against Iran. He asserted that the “forces of chaos, terror, and ruin” in the Middle East now stand “weakened, isolated, and totally defeated.”
Speaking before Israeli lawmakers, Trump highlighted the emergence of what he described as “a new coalition of proud and responsible nations,” claiming that “the enemies of all civilization are in retreat.”
The president praised the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) for their role in the 12-day air campaign, specifically commending IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir for his leadership. “Great job,” Trump said, noting the coordination between U.S. and Israeli forces during the operation.
Trump also acknowledged the U.S. military’s contribution, citing the use of B-2 bombers in strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. “I thought they were pretty planes, I had no idea they could do what they did,” he remarked, prompting applause from parts of the chamber.
He emphasized that the operation had successfully targeted Iranian operatives and top scientists, asserting that it prevented Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons within “two months or less.” “Together, we stopped the number-one state sponsor of terror from obtaining the world’s most dangerous weapons,” Trump said.
Concluding his speech, Trump described the joint offensive as “our last shot” and expressed that it was “an honor to help,” framing the campaign as a significant effort to reduce threats in the region.