Trump says U.S. responding to Iran with 'low key' approach, calls it a 'chess game'

President Donald Trump described the U.S. response to Iran's demands as "low keying it," suggesting a limited negotiation is underway while Iran faces severe economic hardship. Trump noted Iran's financial struggles, stating the country lacks funds to pay its soldiers and that U.S. maritime blockades have worsened its economic crisis.

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We are low keying it.

Trump also claimed that falling oil prices, to around $75 per barrel, have eased the burden on American consumers. He expressed optimism about the negotiations, comparing the situation to a "chess game" that he believes will resolve favorably. This comes as Iran, through its Supreme National Security Council Secretary Mohammad Bagheri, had previously outlined conditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, including an end to U.S. threats and sanctions, withdrawal of U.S. troops, and compensation for war damages.

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We are semi-negotiating with them. We are just watching Iran go through hell because of the inflation and the money they don't have.

Despite recent reports that Trump had considered resuming large-scale military operations just a week prior, his tone in the interview was notably less confrontational. He did not express anger or frustration regarding Iran's delay in announcing an agreement with Oman to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. officials reportedly believe there are growing divisions within Iran's leadership, with President Hassan Rouhani's faction favoring a deal to avert economic collapse, while the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, led by Commander Ahmad Vahidi, resists concessions.

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Iran is in very bad economic shape and they don't have money to give to their military.

Vice President JD Vance echoed a cautious sentiment, telling Fox News that the situation with Iran is far from over and that the U.S. is employing all available tools, diplomatic, economic, and military, to ensure the best outcome for the American people. The U.S. is in the "middle of the game," Vance stated.

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It's going to work out fine.