Trump shrugs off Iran conflict and calls it 'small potatoes'
President Donald Trump characterized the ongoing military conflict with Iran as 'small potatoes' while defending Vice President JD Vance's refusal to label the situation a 'war.' The administration maintains that the conflict is intermittent despite ongoing casualties and regional tensions.
Why it matters
The rhetoric used by the executive branch regarding military engagements significantly impacts public perception and international diplomatic relations.
By AAMER MADHANI Updated [hour]:[minute] [AMPM] [timezone], [monthFull] [day], [year] Leer en español --> Add AP News on Google Add AP News as your preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. --> Share
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump on Friday said the conflict in Iran is “small potatoes” as he defended Vice President JD Vance for asserting that months of on-and-off attacks in the Middle East are not a “war.”
Asked during an Oval Office exchange about Vance’s comments made a day earlier, Trump said U.S. strikes on Iran are now “intermittent” and “a lot of people don’t call it a war.” The conflict has cost U.S. taxpayers more than $37.5 billion and left 18 U.S. service members dead.
“I can understand what he’s saying,” said Trump. He added: “I call it a military conflict because it’s small potatoes for us. It’s not a big thing.”
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