US President Donald Trump said he is not focusing on the financial struggles of Americans while handling the ongoing conflict with Iran. Speaking to reporters before leaving for China for a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Trump said stopping Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon remains his top priority.
“I don’t think about Americans’ financial situation. I don’t think about anybody. I think about one thing: We cannot let Iran have a nuclear weapon, that’s all,” Trump said.
Trump Defends His Iran Policy
Reporters asked Trump whether he was considering the growing financial burden on American families caused by the prolonged conflict and rising fuel prices. Trump responded that national security concerns outweighed economic worries.
“The most important thing, by far, including whether our stock market — which, by the way is at an all-time high — but including whether or not our stock market goes up or down a little bit, the most important thing by far is Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon,” he said.
His remarks came as the US conflict with Iran entered its second month with no clear resolution in sight.
Poll Shows Growing Public Concerns
At the same time, a new national poll showed rising public frustration over the economic impact of the war. Many Americans expressed concern about soaring gasoline prices and increasing household expenses.
The survey showed that 63 percent of Americans said recent fuel price hikes had negatively affected their personal finances. That number increased sharply compared to earlier polls conducted in March. The poll also suggested that many voters blamed Trump’s Republican allies for the worsening economic situation ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.
Americans Want Clearer Explanation
The survey further revealed that many Americans remain unconvinced about the purpose of US military involvement in Iran. Around 66 percent of respondents said Trump had not “clearly explained the goals of US military involvement in Iran.”
The concern extended across party lines. The poll showed that nearly all Democrats and around one-third of Republicans shared the same criticism.
Republicans Face Pressure Ahead of Elections
The poll also highlighted growing political pressure on Republicans as fuel prices continue rising nationwide. Three-fourths of respondents said Trump’s administration carried at least some responsibility for the surge in gasoline prices.
When asked which political party was more responsible, 65 percent blamed Republicans while 27 percent blamed Democrats. The latest findings added new political challenges for Trump and Republican lawmakers as they prepare to defend their congressional majorities in the November midterm elections.