‘That’s why we fight’: Trump links 9/11 to Iran conflict
President Donald Trump marked the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks by linking the historical event to the current U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran. Speaking at the Pentagon, he emphasized a commitment to victory in the ongoing 'war on terror' and criticized domestic political opponents.
Why it matters
The speech highlights a shift in U.S. foreign policy rhetoric, framing current military engagements in the Middle East as a direct continuation of post-9/11 security objectives.
President Donald Trump vowed on Friday (September 11, 2026) that the United States would never forget the September 11, 2001 attacks and suggested the country was continuing the "war on terror" 25 years later by fighting Iran.
Speaking at the Pentagon after skipping the main 9/11 commemorations in New York, Republican Trump also hit out at domestic "fanatics" in an apparent swipe at Democrats.
"Today we renew the sacred oath that we first swore in their names a quarter of a century ago. We will never, ever forget. That's why we fight today," Mr. Trump said in a speech.
"We don't have a choice. There can only be victory. We fight hard. We fight to win," added the President, who was accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in