During his State of the Union address at the U.S. Capitol, Donald Trump alleged that Iran is advancing missile capabilities that could soon reach the United States, though he did not present evidence to support the claim.

“Iran has developed missiles that threaten Europe and U.S. bases overseas, and they are building missiles that will soon be able to strike the United States,” Trump stated.

The remarks come amid heightened tensions following a significant U.S. military buildup in the Middle East, as Washington pressures Tehran over its nuclear program and missile development.

Trump also referenced last year’s U.S. strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities, dubbed Operation Midnight Hammer, warning that Tehran had been told not to revive its weapons ambitions.

“After Operation Midnight Hammer, Iran was warned not to attempt to restore its weapons program,” he said. “Yet they continue forward and are once again pursuing nuclear ambitions.”

Despite the sharp rhetoric, Trump said he prefers a diplomatic resolution but insisted he would “never allow” Iran which he described as “the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism” to obtain nuclear weapons.

Tehran has not issued an immediate response to the latest remarks.