Trump Defends Cities Amid Controversial Iran Comments at Rally

WHO:

NBC News - President Trump

WHAT:

NBC News - President Trump stated that "we protect our cities" during a rally.

NBC News - Trump suggested that Iran could "hit" San Diego or Los Angeles if it had nuclear weapons.

NBC News - Trump previously told a crowd in Nebraska that Iran could "take out" the cities.

WHERE:

NBC News - The rally took place in San Antonio, Texas.

WHY:

NBC News - The rally was intended to galvanize voters behind Texas Republicans ahead of the midterms.

HOW:

NBC News - Trump reframed his earlier comments during the San Antonio rally in response to criticism.

(UPDATED October 8, 2026 03:10 UTC)

At a rally in San Antonio, Texas, President Trump emphasized the importance of protecting American cities, stating, "we protect our cities." He raised concerns about Iran potentially targeting San Diego or Los Angeles if it were to acquire nuclear weapons, echoing previous remarks made in Nebraska where he warned that Iran could "take out" those cities. This rally aimed to rally support for Texas Republicans ahead of the upcoming midterm elections, with Trump reframing his earlier comments in light of criticism.