In a marathon State of the Union address lasting nearly two hours early Wednesday, President Donald Trump delivered a sweeping defense of his second-term agenda while making explosive foreign policy claims—including that he personally prevented the Pakistani Prime Minister's death during last year's India-Pakistan conflict.
Speaking before a joint session of Congress, Trump declared "the golden age of America" had arrived, touting economic gains, border security, and what he called unprecedented respect for the United States abroad. But it was his foreign policy assertions that drew sharp attention.
Trump's India-Pakistan Intervention Claim
The President repeated his contention that US intervention prevented escalation between nuclear-armed neighbors during last May's cross-border hostilities. "The Prime Minister of Pakistan would've died if not for me," Trump told lawmakers, claiming credit for ending what he described as eight international conflicts since returning to office.
The remark referenced India's Operation Sindoor against terror infrastructure in Pakistan, during which border clashes erupted. Trump offered no additional details about his alleged intervention but framed it as evidence of his administration's crisis management capabilities.
Iran: 'Operation Midnight Hammer' and Protest Crackdown
Trump devoted significant time to Iran, claiming US forces had "obliterated" Tehran's nuclear program through Operation Midnight Hammerconducted last year. He alleged Iran continues developing missiles capable of reaching Europe—and soon, the United States.
The President also condemned what he called Iran's killing of 32,000 protesters during recent unrest, claiming his administration prevented executions by threatening "serious violence." He labeled Iran "the world's biggest terror sponsor" and vowed to block any nuclear weapons ambitions.
Domestic Agenda: Economy, Border, and Healthcare
On domestic issues, Trump blamed Democrats for inflation while highlighting falling gas prices (below $2.30 in many states) and claimed the national murder rate has reached a 125-year low. He asserted the US now has "the strongest border in history" with zero illegal admissions over nine months.
Trump promoted his "Great Healthcare Plan," proposing to redirect insurance company payments directly to citizens. He also announced Vice President JD Vance will lead a new anti-fraud initiative focused on Minnesota's social service programs.
Supreme Court Clash and Tariff Defense
The President criticized last week's Supreme Court ruling blocking his tariff policy as "very unfortunate," though he signaled authority to impose stricter measures through alternative statutes. "Almost all countries want to maintain existing deals," Trump said, suggesting tariffs could eventually replace income tax systems.
Democratic Response and Protests
Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger delivered the Democratic rebuttal, accusing Trump of "lying, blaming others, and distracting" while offering no real solutions. "Is the president working for you?" she asked viewers directly.
Protests marked the address, with Representative Al Green ejected for displaying a sign reading "BLACK PEOPLE AREN'T APES!" Several Democratic lawmakers boycotted entirely, bringing Jeffrey Epstein abuse survivors as guests.
Record-Breaking Speech
The 1-hour-48-minute address surpassed Bill Clinton's 2000 record, touching on topics from Venezuelan oil cooperation to women's hockey team recognition. Trump also paid tribute to slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk, whose widow attended as his guest.
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