WASHINGTON, USA — U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a flurry of provocative statements on his Truth Social platform, declaring that the United States has achieved “complete and total control of the skies over Iran” as the conflict between Iran and Israel continues to escalate.
The posts, made on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, came as Iran and Israel traded missile attacks for the sixth consecutive day, heightening fears of a wider regional war.
Although the Israeli military is understood to have carried out recent airstrikes that penetrated Iran’s air defences, Trump repeatedly used collective language suggesting direct American involvement.
“Iran had good sky trackers and other defensive equipment and plenty of it, but it doesn’t compare to American-made, conceived, and manufactured ‘stuff,’” Trump wrote.
“Nobody does it better than the good ol’ USA.”
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 17, 2025
The president also claimed that U.S. forces had located Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
“We know exactly where the so-called ‘Supreme Leader’ is hiding. He is an easy target but is safe there – We are not going to take him out (kill!), at least not for now,” he posted.
While reiterating that his administration was not seeking war, Trump warned of diminishing patience.
“But we don’t want missiles shot at civilians or American soldiers. Our patience is wearing thin. Thank you for your attention to this matter!” he added.
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 17, 2025
Despite the administration’s official stance that the U.S. is not involved in Israeli military operations, Trump’s language has fuelled speculation of behind-the-scenes coordination and potential mission creep.
In his final Iran-related post on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, the president issued an ultimatum: “UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER!”
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 17, 2025
The posts have drawn scrutiny from international observers and analysts, with many warning that the president’s messaging could derail diplomatic efforts or provoke further escalation.
Earlier in the day, Vice President JD Vance appeared to strike a more measured tone, stating that Trump “may decide he needs to take further action” to end Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
He praised the president’s “restraint” and reaffirmed that U.S. military efforts remain focused on the protection of American personnel and civilians.
“President Trump is only interested in using the American military to accomplish the American people’s goals,” Vance said.
Tensions between Iran and Israel erupted into open conflict following a series of Israeli airstrikes, including one that reportedly killed Iran’s wartime chief of staff, Ali Shadmani.
Iran has responded with missile barrages into Israeli territory, although casualty figures remain uncertain.
