Trump pays tribute to Hispanic community as pillar of faith, family in US

President Donald Trump led the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month at the White House on Wednesday, an event in which he paid tribute to the Hispanic American community for its decisive role in preserving the country's institutions and culture.

During his speech, the president described Hispanics as key contributors to national prosperity and defenders of the ethical principles that underpin the United States.

"We honor the countless Hispanic American patriots throughout our history who have been among the greatest champions of faith, family and our God-given freedoms," Trump told the audience.

The message followed up on a statement issued by the White House earlier this month, in which the administration highlighted the contribution of Hispanics in starting businesses, founding churches and serving in the armed forces.

Tax relief, skilled jobs and border control

On the economic front, the president maintained that the deregulation measures and tax cuts promoted by his administration have restored purchasing power to Hispanic households, highlighting the federal tax exemption on tips, overtime and Social Security benefits.

According to Trump, employment among Hispanics continues to grow, with a 30% increase in tech jobs over the past year.

Describing Hispanic workers as "hardworking," "very intelligent” and "energetic,” the president defended the construction of the border wall as a necessary safeguard to protect communities from crime.

Trump argued that strict border control meets the need to keep criminals out, asserting that Hispanic families are the first to have a stake in safeguarding neighborhood security.

Imminent resolution in Iran and control of the Strait of Hormuz

During the meeting, the president also addressed the conflict in the Middle East, forecasting a swift resolution to the hostilities and asserting that the Iranian regime is militarily and economically devastated after six months of fighting.

"You'll see things happening very soon," Trump declared, after noting that the Iranian navy, air force and anti-aircraft systems have been completely neutralized.

Regarding international shipping, Trump assured that the United States exercises "nearly total" control over the Strait of Hormuz, dismissing fears of possible blockades on the passage of hydrocarbons.

"In fact, in the last three days more oil has flowed out of the Strait of Hormuz than at any other time in history," the president added, highlighting the surge in crude oil shipments.

The value of freedom compared to other countries’ models 

The event also featured remarks by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the first Hispanic to hold that top position in U.S. diplomacy.

Rubio emphasized the Hispanic community's deep-rooted connection to the U.S. model of freedoms, noting that many of its members have firsthand experience with the ravages of authoritarian regimes in the region.

"We Hispanic Americans are Americans," Rubio declared during his speech. "We are proud to be Americans."

The event concluded by reinforcing the administration's message on the need to stay the course toward economic growth, deregulation, and the protection of individual freedoms throughout the nation.