In a Wednesday Oval Office press interaction, President Donald Trump defended the economic consequences of his administration's military action against Iran, claiming he intentionally contributed to a stock market decline and rising inflation as part of a necessary strategy.Trump stated that year-over-year inflation reached 4.

2 percent last month, largely due to higher energy prices from the conflict, but insisted he 'loves the inflation' because it aligns with broader goals following the Feb.28 attack.He revealed details about U.S.operations targeting Iranian oil shipments, including the destruction of 22 ships, which he said helped influence global oil prices to around $85 per barrel.

According to Trump, the decision to strike was made after consultations with key officials including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and Attorney General Todd Blanche.

He described the pre-war economy as the strongest in history with record stock market and 401(k) highs but argued that preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon justified the costs, including an anticipated 25 percent drop in the stock market.Trump praised the use of B-2 bombers in the operation, calling it highly successful.The remarks come amid ongoing debates about the war's impact on the U.S.economy and national security priorities.

Critics view the comments as highlighting potential missteps in economic management during the conflict, while supporters may see them as evidence of decisive leadership on existential threats.The president's statements underscore the intersection of foreign policy decisions and domestic economic challenges in his second term.