Iran could 'just bop along' and fail economically - Trump

Former US President Donald Trump has outlined two potential strategies for dealing with Iran: either continue with the current approach of economic pressure or escalate military action significantly. In a phone interview with Real America's Voice, Trump characterized Iran as "devious negotiators." He suggested one option is to "just bop along" and allow Iran to fail economically, noting that the US controls its frozen assets. "I'm their banker," he stated. The alternative, he said, would be to "Hit them really, really hard."

“

I'm sort of negotiating. They're very devious negotiators.

Trump also addressed concerns about US munitions stockpiles, which Reuters reported are depleted due to aid to Ukraine. He dismissed these worries, asserting that the US is rapidly building new munitions. "We're fine with munitions," he said, blaming his predecessor, Joe Biden, for the reduction.

“

Do what I'm doing now: just bop along and look how bad they're doing.

Meanwhile, Pakistan's Defense Minister Khawaja Asif indicated that progress is being made toward a peace arrangement, with signals suggesting a deal is close. Qatar's Foreign Ministry also reported advanced talks between Oman and Iran regarding the management of the Strait of Hormuz. These diplomatic efforts occur amidst ongoing regional tensions, including reported attacks on shipping, which have led to thousands of casualties since late February, primarily in Iran and Lebanon. Iran has retaliated by targeting US assets and infrastructure in several regional countries.

“

Economically, they are a mess. They can't borrow money. We control their money, what they had, which is a lot. They had a lot, and we have total control of it. I'm their banker.