U.S. President Donald Trump has defended his decision to launch military strikes against Iran, claiming that the action prevented Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
In an interview with commentator Wayne Allyn Root, Trump said that without U.S. military intervention, Iran would now possess nuclear weapons.
“If I didn’t do what I did, they would have nuclear weapons right now,” Trump said.
Trump also addressed Iran’s economic situation, claiming that the country is facing a severe economic crisis. He said the United States has three possible strategies toward Tehran: maintaining the current pressure, intensifying military strikes, or forcing Iran into submission through economic pressure.
“They have 300% inflation. Their currency is almost worthless. They don’t pay their soldiers. The soldiers are leaving,” Trump claimed.
According to Trump, Iran’s economy is in chaos and Tehran is unable to borrow money.
“We control their money, what they had, which is a lot. And we have absolute control over it. I’m their banker,” the U.S. president said.
Trump’s remarks come as Washington continues to defend its policy of maximum pressure on Tehran, with the Iranian nuclear program remaining at the centre of tensions between the two countries.
