Trump on Iran: 'Let them take out LA, let them take out San Diego'

October 6, 2026

During a midterm rally in Nebraska, President Donald Trump made controversial remarks suggesting Iran could "take out" Los Angeles and San Diego, triggering sharp criticism from California political leaders. California Governor Gavin Newsom characterized Trump's comments as "deranged and dangerous," while Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass interpreted them as threats encouraging attacks against Americans. The White House attempted to clarify the statement, claiming Trump meant these cities would have faced threats from Iran if he hadn't launched military action there earlier in the year.

Who is affected

Residents of Los Angeles and San Diego
California Governor Gavin Newsom
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass
U.S. military personnel stationed at Navy ports and Air Force bases in southern California
California politicians (broadly)

What action is being taken

No explicit ongoing actions are described in the article beyond political leaders responding to and criticizing Trump's comments.

Why it matters

The remarks are significant because they reference potential threats to two major American cities that house critical U.S. military installations, including Navy ports and Air Force bases. The comments sparked concern among California political leaders who viewed them as dangerous rhetoric that could encourage attacks on American citizens, representing a serious breach of expected presidential discourse regarding threats to American cities.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC