President Trump pauses as he finishes speaking about the Iran war during a prime-time address at the White House on April 1.
Alex Brandon/Pool/Getty Images
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Alex Brandon/Pool/Getty Images
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President Trump is scheduled to hold a press conference on Monday afternoon, marking his first since the conflict between the U.S., Israel, and Iran began over a month ago.
The press conference follows Trump’s national address from the White House last week, where he predicted the conflict would conclude “shortly.” During the address, he criticized unnamed countries and asserted that it is their responsibility to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for 20% of global oil transportation.
Watch the 1 p.m. ET news conference here:
The closure of the Strait by Iran during the conflict has caused a spike in global gas prices, reaching approximately $4 per gallon in the U.S. last week.
Trump has issued a warning of increased strikes on Iran set for Tuesday if the Strait is not reopened by the end of Monday.
“Tuesday will be Power Plant Day, and Bridge Day, all wrapped up in one, in Iran,” Trump announced on social media over the weekend. “Open the F***in’ Strait, you crazy bastards, or you’ll be living in Hell – JUST WATCH!”
Meanwhile, negotiations between the U.S. and Iran have shown some progress. A 45-day ceasefire proposal was submitted to both countries on Sunday. Trump described this proposal on Monday as “a significant step.”
While Trump has consistently stated the war would last around six weeks, it is now in its sixth week, and the timeline for its conclusion remains uncertain, along with the feasibility of Trump’s objectives.
In recent weeks, Trump’s administration has continually adjusted its goals with Iran, including the potential removal of Iran’s uranium stockpiles. Trump has also indicated the U.S. could end the war but may strike Iran again if they pursue nuclear defenses.
Public opinion polls indicate that Americans largely oppose the war in Iran. Even among Trump’s Republican supporters, his approval rating has declined. A CNN poll from last week revealed that strong approval among Republicans for Trump’s job performance has fallen to 43% from 52% in January.
High costs, particularly gas prices, remain a primary concern for voters as the midterm elections approach in approximately six months. Trump acknowledged on Monday that high prices might persist into the summer.
“We’re never going to let them have a nuclear weapon,” Trump stated regarding Iran. “And if we have to pay a little extra for fuel for a couple of months, we’ll do that, but we’re never going to allow Iran to have a nuclear weapon.”
