U.S. President, Donald Trump, on Saturday said a shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner would not distract or deter his administration from its war posture against Iran.
Addressing reporters after the incident, Trump described the attack as likely the act of a “lone wolf,” adding that preliminary findings do not suggest a direct link to the ongoing conflict with Iran.
“It’s not going to deter me from winning the war in Iran. I don’t know if that had anything to do with it — I really don’t think so based on what we know,” he said.
He, however, acknowledged that investigators were still working to determine the motive behind the shooting and whether any broader connections exist.
The development comes as tensions remain high between Washington and Tehran, with the U.S. ramping up pressure through military and economic measures, including a reported blockade of Iranian ports.
Trump also confirmed the cancellation of a planned diplomatic trip to Pakistan for talks aimed at de-escalating the crisis, citing dissatisfaction with Iran’s position.
The White House Correspondents’ Association dinner is an annual high-profile event that brings together top U.S. government officials, journalists, and celebrities in Washington.
Traditionally known for its light-hearted tone and presidential remarks, the gathering is considered one of the most secure social events in the U.S. capital.
The shooting incident has therefore raised fresh concerns about security breaches at elite government functions, as well as the vulnerability of even heavily protected venues to isolated attacks.
Authorities are expected to review security protocols around such high-profile events in the aftermath.
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