[Video below.] Rep. Elise Stefanik forcefully defended President Donald Trump on Sunday, rejecting accusations that his recent statements about Iran amounted to advocating genocide during a contentious exchange on CNN.

Appearing on “State of the Union” with Jake Tapper, the New York Republican dismissed the allegation outright. “President Trump didn’t call for genocide, Jake. You are putting those words in his mouth.”

The exchange came amid criticism of Trump’s recent rhetoric about confronting threats from Iran, with some detractors arguing that his language could be interpreted as targeting civilians. Administration officials have countered that the president’s comments are aimed specifically at Iran’s leadership, which the U.S. State Department classifies as a state sponsor of terrorism.

Stefanik echoed that position during the interview, emphasizing, “He’s targeting the terrorist regime.”

Tapper pressed further, asking whether references to eliminating threats might cross a line, reflecting concerns raised by critics. Stefanik rejected that framing and accused the media of distorting Trump’s message.

“You’re adding genocide. That’s not what he’s stating,” Stefanik said.

She went on to draw a comparison to prior congressional hearings involving university presidents, suggesting a contrast in clarity.

“The difference with those university presidents is they couldn’t answer the simple, direct question,” Stefanik said. “President Trump didn’t call for genocide.”

Stefanik also shifted focus to Iran’s actions, highlighting the regime’s record.

“The Iranians have killed tens of thousands of their own people,” she said. “President Trump effectively brought the Iranians to the table. He effectively delivered a ceasefire.”

She criticized those who have raised concerns about Trump’s rhetoric, adding, “If you want to prop up the Iranian terrorist regime, that’s on you.”

The Trump administration has maintained that its policy is centered on curbing Iran’s nuclear ambitions and limiting its regional influence, stressing that its actions are directed at the regime rather than the Iranian population while applying pressure to bring Tehran to negotiations.

Reiterating that stance, Stefanik concluded, “The president has been very effective in calling out the Iranian terrorist regime.”

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{Matzav.com}