US President Donald Trump says Americans should accept slightly higher gasoline prices, framing the increase as the cost of preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. Speaking in Garden City, he argues that paying “a tiny little bit more” at the pump reflects a wider service to the world. He also says he will not apologize for attacking Iran, and presents the move as part of broader efforts to deter Iranian nuclear ambitions.
The comments come as fuel prices rise amid heightened concerns about potential disruption to oil and liquefied natural gas shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a major shipping route for global energy flows. Multiple outlets link Trump’s remarks to an emerging political challenge for his administration as higher energy costs collide with campaign messaging about lowering costs for consumers. Democrats are also portrayed as preparing to raise the economic impact of confrontation with Iran ahead of the November midterm elections.
While outlet phrasing varies, all describe Trump’s call for public acceptance of higher prices and connect it to his escalated rhetoric on Iran and the market pressures affecting global oil supply routes.
