Trump Calls for Execution of Military Leakers

President Trump declared Wednesday that individuals who leak U.S. military secrets should be executed, expressing his anger over an alleged leak concerning the timing of a bombing campaign against Iran’s nuclear facilities. The remarks were made during a midterm rally for Republican candidates in Arizona.

"Somebody leaked, some sleazebag. They ought to go to jail and be shot. For the rest of their life, they should be in jail," Trump told the crowd. He specifically mentioned a leak published by The New York Times and CNN regarding the departure time from Missouri for what he described as Operation Midnight Hammer, an operation targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities last summer.

Trump explained that upon learning of the leak, he initially called off the mission. However, he and Gen. Dan Caine, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, later decided to proceed with the operation two days later, using B-2 Spirit stealth bombers from the same Missouri base at the previously planned time.

"In my opinion, leakers should be shot," Trump reiterated. "In the old days, we used to shoot leakers." He emphasized the danger of such leaks, particularly when they involve the timing of attacks related to preventing other nations from acquiring weapons of mass destruction.

This is not the first time Trump has called for severe punishment for military-related offenses. Last week, he approved the use of a military firing squad for the execution of Nidal Hasan, who killed 12 U.S. service members and one civilian in a 2009 rampage at Fort Hood, Texas. War Secretary Pete Hegseth has indicated that Hasan’s execution will be livestreamed.

During the rally, Trump also encouraged attendees to vote for Republican candidates, including Rep. Andy Biggs, who is running against incumbent Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs in Arizona’s gubernatorial election. Undefeated boxing champion Floyd Mayweather Jr. also appeared on stage, urging unity and support for the country.