Trump says US ‘low-keying it’ with Iran as Tehran struggles with inflation

U.S. President Donald Trump suggested on Sunday that the United States is prepared to let economic pressure continue against Iran, apparently shifting away from ordering additional military strikes despite Tehran's firm demands. According to Axios, which reportedly spoke to Trump in a brief phone call, he stated, "We are low-keying it." This shift occurred just a week after Trump made one of his recurring threats to inflict severe harm upon Iran, only to later retreat from such actions.

Despite Iran's persistent demand for the U.S. to cease its blockade of Iranian ports and lift oil sanctions, as outlined in the memorandum of understanding signed between the two nations in June, Trump expressed no frustration regarding Iran's delay in agreeing to open up the Strait of Hormuz. The ongoing blockade has led to soaring fuel prices and has rattled the global economy, placing pressure on the Trump administration as the upcoming midterm elections approach in November.

Trump explained that his administration is "only semi-negotiating with them" and is "just watching Iran with its huge inflation and the fact they have no money." He also noted that oil prices are declining, meaning American consumers are experiencing less pain from the conflict. Trump concluded his remarks by describing U.S.-Iran dealings as a "chess game."