The White House has forcefully refuted reports suggesting that Iran is planning drone attacks against California in retaliation for Operation Epic Fury. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt criticized an ABC News report, alleging the outlet intentionally omitted that the intelligence was “unverified.” According to Leavitt, the warning sent to California state police originated from a single, unsubstantiated tip.
Even Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom joined the administration in downplaying the immediate threat, assuring citizens that state intelligence teams are monitoring the situation closely.Amidst this controversy, the Trump administration is navigating backlash from conservative commentators like Matt Walsh, who have pointed out inconsistencies in the military campaign’s messaging. While questions remain regarding whether the strikes seek regime change, Leavitt clarified that the primary goals of Operation Epic Fury include the total destruction of Iran’s missile industry and naval capabilities.
She emphasized that the operation aims to dismantle terrorist proxies and ensure the regime never acquires nuclear weapons, noting that previous efforts—including Operation Midnight Hammer—had already targeted nuclear sites.The administration maintains a hardline stance, asserting that President Donald Trump is correcting decades of diplomatic failures. Leavitt confirmed that 49 high-ranking Iranian leaders, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, have already been killed in the opening strikes. Despite the internal debate over whether the actions were preemptive or reactive, the White House insists that neutralizing the Iranian regime is essential for the security of America and its allies.
