Trump Questions American Patience Over Iran Conflict During Easter Lunch

Trump's Remarks on Iran and Global Allies

Washington: During an Easter gathering at the White House, President Donald Trump expressed uncertainty about the American public's tolerance for the ongoing conflict in Iran. His comments hinted at the increasing domestic pressure to conclude the war.

Trump noted that the U.S. could easily seize Iranian oil but lamented the apparent lack of public support for such actions, stating, "They want to see it end."

He added, "I would prefer to take Iran's oil, but people in the country sort of say, 'Just win. You’re winning so big. Just win. Come home.' And I’m OK with that too."

A Business Insider reporter shared a video of the speech, revealing that the White House had initially posted it before making it private. The White House did not comment on the video's removal.

At the same lunch, Trump suggested that countries like China, Japan, and South Korea should take part in securing the Strait of Hormuz.

Previously, he had criticized NATO allies for their hesitance to assist in the region until the U.S. and Israel conclude their military actions against Iran.

Trump expressed frustration towards Asian nations that depend heavily on Gulf oil, saying, "Let South Korea, you know, we only have 45,000 soldiers in harm's way over there, right next to a nuclear force – let South Korea do it. Let Japan do it. They get 90 percent of their oil from the strait. Let China do it."

He also labeled NATO as 'very bad allies' and a 'paper tiger,' reiterating his grievances about the alliance's past treatment of the U.S.

"NATO treated us very badly, and you have to remember it because they’ll be treating us badly again if we ever need them," Trump remarked. "And hopefully, we’re never going to need them. I don’t think we’ll need them. I don’t think they can do very much."

He concluded with a stark warning, stating, "NATO won’t be there if we ever have the big one."