Trump compares US strikes on Iran to WWII Pearl Harbor attack

AFP / France 24
by FRANCE24
March 20, 2026
2 min read

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President Trump compared recent US strikes on Iran to the 1941 Pearl Harbor attack during a visit from Japan's PM.

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President Donald Trump compared recent US strikes on Iran to the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor during Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's visit to Washington. Trump made the comparison when asked why US allies, including Japan, were not consulted before the strikes in Iran occurred. He stated the reason for lack of consultation was "surprise," then questioned why Japan had not warned of the Pearl Harbor attack. This exchange occurred amid discussions about international cooperation and military actions. The President's remarks drew a parallel between the current situation with Iran and a pivotal historical event.

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