WASHINGTON (VINnews) — Donald Trump said Friday it is “an honor” to kill Iranians he blames for decades of attacks on innocent people around the world, issuing a sharp warning to Tehran’s leadership as military tensions escalate.

In a message posted on his Truth Social platform, Trump said Iran’s rulers have spent 47 years supporting violence and terrorism, and declared that the United States is now striking back.

“They’ve been killing innocent people all over the world for 47 years, and now I, as the 47th President of the United States of America, am killing them,” Trump wrote. “What a great honor it is to do so.”

Trump also claimed the United States is severely damaging Iran’s military capabilities, saying the country’s naval and air forces have been effectively wiped out while missiles and drones are being destroyed.

He added that American forces have overwhelming firepower and the resources to continue the campaign.

The president also criticized coverage by The New York Times, accusing the outlet of portraying the conflict inaccurately.

Trump’s comments come as the United States and Israel continue military operations targeting Iranian leadership and military infrastructure.