President Donald Trump said that concerns about Americans’ finances are not part of his thinking as he pushes for a deal with Iran amid escalating conflict in the region.
Speaking to reporters on the White House South Lawn before departing for a diplomatic trip to China, Trump was asked whether rising costs for Americans affect his negotiations with Iran’s leadership.
“Not even a little bit,” Trump said. “The only thing that matters when I’m talking about Iran — they can’t have a nuclear weapon.”
“I don’t think about Americans’ financial situation. I don’t think about anybody,” he continued. “I think about one thing — we cannot let Iran have a nuclear weapon. That’s all.”
After a reporter pressed him on the economic fallout tied to the conflict, Trump doubled down on his position.
Trump on Iran War:
— Acyn (@Acyn) May 12, 2026
Reporter: What extent are Americans’ financial situation motivating you to make a deal?
Trump: Not even a little bit. I don't think about Americans’ financial situation pic.twitter.com/TJ94pGpqD8
“The most important thing by far is Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon,” he said, later adding, “Every American understands.”
Americans are currently struggling as gas prices continue climbing across the United States after Iran restricted access to the Strait of Hormuz following joint military strikes launched by the U.S. and Israel earlier this year.
According to AAA, the national average price for regular gas reached $4.50 per gallon on Tuesday, while diesel climbed above $5.60.