Trump says Iran apology was warranted: President ‘probably went a little’ too far, and is sorry

Remarks at the Arizona rally

Trump spoke Wednesday to supporters in Bullhead City, a Republican stronghold, during a 30-day effort to energize his base before the midterms. His speech lasted one hour and 40 minutes and included a defense of the war.

He described Iran’s military capabilities and leaders as eliminated, then questioned whom the United States could deal with. Trump said he had promised not to target more people, but added that he did not know who would want to lead Iran.

Trump told the crowd, “I probably went a little too far. I’m sorry.” He linked the apology to uncertainty over who remained available to negotiate.

Economic pressures at home

The military operation began February 28 and was nearing its eighth month. It has pushed gas prices higher for Americans, according to the report. The Labor Department’s producer price index showed wholesale inflation at 6.3 percent in September compared with a year earlier. That was up from 5.6 percent in August and the largest increase since December 2022.

A Federal Reserve survey released this month found families were falling behind on bills at a pace not seen since the Great Recession. The figures add to financial concerns as the midterms approach.

Trump’s response on affordability

At the rally, Trump blamed what he called “radical Dumocrat communists” for the affordability problem. He did not offer further details in the remarks quoted in the report.

The speech combined praise of the military campaign with an apology over its consequences for Iran’s leadership. The war and its economic effects remain among the concerns facing voters before the elections.