Trump Says Higher Gas Prices Are Temporary Cost of Stopping Iran Nuclear Program

U.S. gas prices is a short-term price worth paying to keep Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. 533 per gallon, Trump told reporters outside the White House that Americans should accept the higher cost at the pump for a limited period while his administration works to end Tehran’s nuclear ambitions.

U.S. and Israel began military operations against Iran on February 28. Tehran’s effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which carries about 20 percent of global oil supply, has kept prices elevated. Trump acknowledged the economic strain but said the alternative was worse.

He stated that he had expected markets to fall as much as 25 percent and accepted that outcome to avoid what he called a nuclear threat.

The president’s remarks followed the latest pause in negotiations between the United States and Iran. Trump warned that if talks do not advance, additional strikes could follow. “We may have to give them another big hit. I’m not sure yet. You’ll know very soon,” he told reporters.

““We cannot let them have a nuclear weapon. You want to see the world exploded? This is peanuts, and I appreciate everybody putting up with it for a little while. ””

Trump said the higher prices would not last long and urged patience while efforts to block Iran’s nuclear program continue.