Former U.S. President Trump stated he believes Iran’s economic system is collapsing and expressed hope for its downfall, favoring this outcome over military conflict.
Trump Seeks Iran’s Economic Downfall
Former U.S. President Trump indicated on Tuesday, May 5th, that he believes the collapsing Iranian economy is a desired outcome. He stated he wants to “win” and believes Iran’s economic failure is contributing to that goal.
Trump assessed that a non-military resolution would be preferable to “going there and killing people,” citing Iran’s financial struggles and U.S. sanctions as factors preventing the regime from paying its soldiers, with actual inflation reaching 150 percent.
Lower-Than-Expected War Costs
Trump noted the economic cost of potential conflict with Iran has been lower than anticipated. He expected oil prices to reach $200-$300 per barrel, but they currently fluctuate between $100-$110.
He described this as a “very small price” to pay for removing the threat of Iran acquiring nuclear weapons from “really sick people.”
Iran’s Negotiating Tactics
The former President asserted Iran desires a deal but expressed frustration with Iranian negotiators who convey different messages privately and publicly.
Trump criticized the practice of Iranian officials expressing respect to him personally while publicly denying direct discussions, labeling it as “games” played by Iran.
Attacks in the Persian Gulf
Regarding recent Iranian attacks on ships and ports in the Persian Gulf and Fujairah, UAE, Trump stated he does not view them as sufficient to warrant a return to war.
When asked what Iran would need to do to trigger a breach of the ceasefire, Trump responded that Iran is aware of the boundaries and “knows what not to do.”
Upcoming Meeting with Xi Jinping
Trump announced he will discuss the situation with Iran next week in China during a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
He emphasized Xi’s “respectful” and “nice” behavior towards the U.S. despite China’s reliance on oil imports from the Persian Gulf region, stating China has not challenged the U.S. and has been “very nice.” Trump also suggested China purchase U.S. oil.
China’s Role and Warnings
The former President previously warned China against supplying arms to Iran, later acknowledging that China provides some assistance, but not to the extent it could.
