Trump Authorizes Thousands of Strikes, Issues Threats to Multiple Nations
Since assuming office in January 2025, former President Donald Trump has authorized nearly 6,000 military strikes across seven countries. A significant portion of these actions, approximately 5,000 according to U.S. Central Command, have been directed against Iran between February 28 and March 10, 2026.
Territorial Threats and Alliances
Beyond military operations, Trump, members of his administration, and close associates have issued threats against nine countries. These threats included potential annexation of territory against Canada, Greenland (a territory of the Kingdom of Denmark), Panama, and Iceland.
William Long, nominated as ambassador to Reykjavik, made a statement in January suggesting Iceland could grow “the 52nd state,” with himself as its “governor.” Trump himself has directly threatened Canada, Greenland, Colombia, and Nigeria.
Regime Change Rhetoric
Calls for regime change have been prominent, particularly concerning Cuba. Marco Rubio, a U.S. Senator, has repeatedly expressed a desire to overthrow the Castro regime. Pressure has also been maintained on Venezuela following the capture of President Maduro in early January and his replacement by Vice President Delcy Rodríguez. During a Senate Foreign Affairs Committee hearing on January 28, officials indicated a willingness to “use force to ensure maximum cooperation” with Venezuela if other methods failed.
Threats to Latin America and the Gulf Region
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, on March 5, threatened a more aggressive approach against cartels in Latin America, warning of potential unilateral U.S. Action, primarily targeting Mexico. Senator Lindsey Graham has also played a key role in advocating interventionist policies.
Graham, a supporter of military aid to Ukraine and a strong proponent of Israel, initiated a campaign to persuade Trump to seize action against Iran. Following the start of the Israeli-American war against Tehran, Graham stated that removing the Iranian regime would be akin to the fall of the Berlin Wall. He also remains a staunch advocate for regime change in Cuba.
Saudi Arabia and Regional Implications
On March 9, Graham threatened Saudi Arabia, along with other Gulf Cooperation Council members, with “consequences” for refusing to participate in military operations against Iran. He expressed unwavering support for Israel, stating his commitment “until our last breath.”
The U.S. Embassy in Riyadh is reportedly being evacuated due to sustained attacks by Iran against Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia has committed to investing $1 trillion in the United States since Trump’s return to power and has expressed openness to normalizing relations with Israel in exchange for U.S. Support for a Palestinian state.
Financial and Business Ties
The Trump Organization has significant financial interests in Saudi Arabia, including the construction of Trump Tower in Jeddah, with plans for a Trump Plaza and other real estate projects in Riyadh, in partnership with Dar Global, and deals with LIV Golf, a professional circuit financed by the Saudi sovereign fund.
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