Byline: Gloria Josiah May 13, 2026

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that Americans’ financial struggles will not influence his approach to Iran, stating that preventing Tehran from getting a nuclear weapon is his sole priority.

Speaking to reporters before leaving Washington for a trip to China, Trump dismissed the idea that rising costs for Americans were pushing him toward a deal with Tehran.

“Not even a little bit,” Trump said when asked if economic pressure was a factor. fde9

“The only thing that matters, when I’m talking about Iran, they can’t have a nuclear weapon,” he said. “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. That’s the only thing that motivates me”. fde9

The comments come as the U.S. faces higher energy prices and inflation tied to the ongoing conflict with Iran. April consumer inflation posted its largest gain in three years, driven partly by surging fuel costs. ad47ae5e

The stance has drawn criticism from both Democrats and some Republicans, who warn that prolonged economic strain could hurt the GOP in November’s midterm elections. fde9ae5e

White House Communications Director Steven Cheung defended the president, saying Trump’s “ultimate responsibility is the safety and security of Americans” and that Iran cannot be allowed to develop nuclear weapons. fde9

Iran continues to deny it is seeking nuclear weapons, insisting its program is for peaceful purposes. Western powers remain skeptical, suspecting Tehran is pursuing the capability to build a bomb. 702f

Trump framed the issue as one of national and global security, saying economic concerns are secondary to preventing nuclear proliferation.