US President Donald Trump recently praised Iranian drones for being both cheap and effective. At the same time, he strongly criticized American defense companies for charging extremely high prices.

During a press briefing, Trump highlighted the cost gap, saying Iranian drones are made for just $35,000 to $40,000, while U.S. firms offer similar models for $41 million. He explained, “I asked one of the companies I want a lot of drones… and in the case of Iran, they make a good drone… for 35-40 thousand dollars.” However, when he requested a U.S. version, he said, “they came in 2 weeks later with a drone that cost 41 million. I said that’s not what I’m talking about."

Moreover, Trump added that Iran’s drones are “very good too and fast and deadly,” emphasizing their performance despite the low price tag.

Trump Signals Openness to Trade with Iran

In a separate interview, Trump said he was open to trade talks with Iran, but only under certain conditions. According to him, Iran must stop pursuing nuclear weapons.

He stated, “Iran wants to trade with us… and I’m OK with that,” and then added, “We make a deal, they’ll be very happy. But… they’re not going to have a nuclear weapon."

Furthermore, Trump revealed his broader strategy, saying, “I’m using trade to settle scores and to make peace.” During his Gulf tour, he expressed optimism about avoiding military conflict, stating, “We’re not going to be making any nuclear dust in Iran. I think we’re getting close to maybe doing a deal without having to do this.”

These remarks had an immediate effect, as global oil prices dropped soon after.

Trump Criticizes Iran’s Governance

In addition to these comments, Trump blamed Iran’s government for mismanagement and environmental damage. He accused the Iranian regime of “turning green farmland into dry deserts.”

He also condemned Iran’s support for Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad, calling it a cause of “misery and death” and blaming it for regional instability.

Iran Responds Sharply

In response, Iran strongly criticized Trump’s statements. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described his remarks as “deceptive.” He argued that the U.S. had actually harmed Iran through sanctions and military threats while also backing Israel and attacking Syria.

The next day, on May 17, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei also fired back. While addressing a rally with chants of “death to America,” Khamenei said, “The level of those remarks is so low that they are a disgrace for the one who uttered them and a disgrace to the American nation.”