Trump Predicts Iran Will 'Give Up' as War Disrupts Global Oil Supply

President Donald Trump on Tuesday expressed confidence that Iran would eventually capitulate in the ongoing war, stating the country is faring “very poorly” under the weight of U.S. economic pressure. The remarks come as the months-long conflict continues to disrupt global energy markets and raise political stakes ahead of the U.S. midterm elections.

Trump's Assessment

Speaking to reporters, Trump projected an eventual U.S. victory while acknowledging the current uncertainty. “I don’t know if they are going to give up yet but they’ll give up,” the president said, according to Reuters. He added that, from his perspective, the Iranians “are doing very poorly.”

This assessment stands in contrast to recent statements from Tehran. Last week, Iran’s president told the United Nations General Assembly that the country would not surrender to pressure from the United States.

Market Impact and Geopolitical Risk

The conflict, which began on February 28, has had significant consequences for the global economy, primarily through the disruption of energy supplies. A U.S.-led blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime chokepoint, has halted traffic through a lane that previously carried a fifth of the world's crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies.

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This supply disruption has contributed to a rise in oil prices, creating a major political and economic challenge for the Trump administration and his Republican party leading into the November midterm elections. The elevated cost of energy has made life more difficult for consumers and businesses alike.

Conflict Background

The war started when the U.S. and Israel launched attacks on Iran, which then retaliated with strikes against Israel and Gulf states that host American military bases. The ensuing conflict has resulted in thousands of casualties and displaced millions of people, according to reports.

A key element of the U.S. strategy has been a blockade aimed at cutting off Iran's primary financial lifeline: its oil exports. This has inflicted severe economic costs on the country, exacerbating hardship for its citizens.