Former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed disappointment over Mojtaba Khamenei’s ascension as Iran’s new Supreme Leader during a press conference in Florida in the early hours of Tuesday, March 10, 2026 (Greek time). Mojtaba Khamenei succeeded his father, Ali Khamenei — who was killed at the outset of the U.S.-Israeli military operation against the Islamic Republic.
‘Inappropriate’ to Confirm Target Status
“We consider this development likely to lead to more similar problems for the country,” Trump told reporters. When asked whether the new Iranian leader is a target, Trump replied it would be “inappropriate” to say so.
Operation ‘Epic Wrath’ Praised as Historic
Trump described the joint U.S.-Israeli campaign — codenamed ‘Epic Wrath’ — as “one of the most complex and impressive operations ever conducted,” calling it a “short-term mission.” He emphasized the significance of February 28 — the day the operation began — saying, “It was a big day, because if we hadn’t done this, Iran would have acquired a nuclear weapon within two weeks, and we’d be in a very different situation.”
He added: “Together with our Israeli partners, we are crushing the enemy and demonstrating our technical superiority and military strength.” Trump concluded by stating, “The world respects us more now than it ever has before,” praising the U.S. military as “a force without equal.”