US President Donald Trump on Monday called Americans who oppose the ongoing US-Israeli military campaign against Iran “foolish,” insisting the conflict is essential to prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump dismissed criticism of the war.
When asked what he would say to Americans against it, he replied, “They’re foolish."
“Because the war is about one thing – Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon," he said, defending the campaign.
President Trump called Americans who don't support the war with Iran "foolish," saying the conflict is about preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. He also said he'd like to take Iran's oil.
"Unfortunately, the American people would like to see us come home. If it were… pic.twitter.com/rKIp3aXoEs
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Trump also hinted at economic motives, stating he would prefer to take control of Iran’s oil resources.
“If I had my choice? What would I like to do? Take the oil, because it’s there for the taking. There’s not a thing they can do about it," he said.
“Unfortunately, the American people would like to see us come home. If it were up to me, I’d take the oil. I’d keep the oil and would make plenty of money. And I’d also take care of the people of Iran," he added.
On diplomatic efforts, Trump called the proposed 45-day ceasefire with Iran “a very significant step" but “not good enough" for him to approve. The plan, reported by US media, is being mediated by Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey.
“It’s not good enough, but it’s a very significant step," he said, adding that talks are ongoing. He also reiterated that threats to strike Iranian civilian infrastructure remain on the table if a deal is not reached.
Iran, however, has rejected the ceasefire proposal. State news agency IRNA reported that Tehran is insisting on a “definitive end" to the conflict rather than a temporary truce.
An Iranian army spokesman said the military would continue fighting “as long as the political authorities see fit."
The developments come amid continued US and Israeli strikes across Iran, while Tehran has intensified missile and drone attacks across the region.
With inputs from agencies
