In a recent interview aired on Fox News, former President Donald Trump made a series of claims on various subjects, including the Middle East, his Republican rivals, and his own past statements. This article aims to fact-check some of these assertions.
Trump’s Stance on the Iraq Invasion
Trump reiterated his claim that he had publicly opposed the invasion of Iraq, stating, “Going into Iraq was a stupid thing. Remember I used to say: ‘Don’t do it, but if you do it, keep the oil.'” However, this claim has been debunked previously. In fact, Trump did not publicly express opposition to the March 2003 invasion of Iraq before it occurred. His public criticism of the war began in 2003, after the invasion had already taken place.
Iran’s Missile Attack
Trump also repeated a claim that Iran intentionally avoided hitting a base housing US troops in Iraq when it launched missiles in retaliation for the Trump-ordered assassination of top Iranian general Qasem Soleimani. However, this claim contradicts reports that 11 Iranian missiles hit the al-Asad base targeted in the retaliatory attack. More than 100 US troops were diagnosed with mild traumatic brain injuries following the attack.
New Hampshire Primary
Trump claimed that Democrats were allowed to vote in the New Hampshire Republican primary. This claim is incorrect. Only registered Republicans and independents are permitted to vote in the Republican primary in New Hampshire.
Indiana Primary Ballot
Trump alleged that Nikki Haley, a rival Republican presidential candidate, failed to apply to be on the Republican primary ballot in Indiana. This claim is false. The filing deadline for the May 7 primary has not yet arrived, and Haley’s campaign has confirmed that they have submitted the required signatures.
McConnell and the Green New Deal
Trump accused Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of supporting trillions in spending on Green New Deal projects. However, McConnell has been a vocal opponent of the Green New Deal. While McConnell did vote for a $1.2 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill that contained some environmental spending, the total amount is far from the “trillions” claimed by Trump.
Border Wall
Trump claimed to have built “561 miles of wall” during his presidency. However, an official report by US Customs and Border Protection states that the actual figure is 458 miles.
Fact-checking is an essential part of journalism, ensuring that the public receives accurate information. As such, it is important to scrutinize the statements of public figures and verify their accuracy.