Trump defends Iran war in Veterans Day address

President Donald Trump commemorated Veterans Day at Arlington National Cemetery, defending the war against Iran - a conflict that has proven costly and unpopular. Trump praised the bravery and skill of American soldiers, stating that "the entire world will be a much safer and better place" after the conflict concludes. The war, which began on February 28, has resulted in 23 US service member deaths and numerous injuries, according to the Pentagon's latest figures.

Trump contended that Iran, not the US or Israel, initiated the conflict, which Tehran has been waging against America since 1979. He emphasized that US forces were intervening to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. During his address, Trump commended Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for his performance, noting that Hegseth had "done a fantastic job."

Republican lawmakers in the House recently thwarted an effort to impeach Hegseth, alleging he waged war without congressional authorization and abused his powers. Trump also attended a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and discussed plans for a 250-foot-tall triumphal arch outside the cemetery, which faces legal challenges from the Kennedy family, veterans, the city of Washington, and the state of Virginia.