President Donald Trump used a White House ceremony honoring soccer legend Lionel Messi to boast about US military operations against Iran, leaving players visibly uncomfortable as they stood behind him.
Donald Trump boasts about US amid Iran War as Lionel Messi visits
The March 5 event, intended to celebrate Inter Miami’s 2025 MLS Cup victory, took an unexpected turn. Donald Trump launched into a detailed account of what he described as devastating strikes against Iranian forces, all while Messi and his teammates listened awkwardly nearby.
“The United States military, together with the wonderful Israeli partners, continues to totally demolish the enemy far ahead of schedule and at levels that people have never seen before,” Trump declared at the top of the ceremony. As the president spoke, Inter Miami players, including Luis Suárez and coach Javier Mascherano, seemingly shifted uncomfortably. Messi had entered the room alongside Trump moments earlier.
Trump provided specific details about the campaign, nicknamed Operation Epic Fury, which Iran claims has killed 1,200 of its people. The president justified the offensive by suggesting preemption was necessary. “We had really no choice, they were gonna hit us if we didn’t hit them, because they’re crazy. We blew up their party,” he added, claiming Iranian officials were now seeking negotiations. “I said, you’re being a little bit late, and we want to fight now more than they do.”
After brief remarks on the economy and operations in Cuba, Donald Trump pivoted to the soccer players, boasting that he was the first president to bring Lionel Messi to the Oval Office. “It’s my distinct privilege to say what no American president has ever had the chance to say before. Welcome to the White House, Lionel Messi,” Trump declared.
Trump also referenced Cristiano Ronaldo before concluding: “It’s an honor for us and everybody at the White House to be honoring you today.” Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas presented the president with a pink team jersey emblazoned with “Trump” and the number 47 (via The Independent).
