Donald Trump sparked fresh political debate after saying he is not focused on the financial struggles facing Americans during the ongoing conflict involving Iran. His remarks came as inflation in the United States reached its highest level in three years. Speaking at the White House before leaving for a trip to China, Trump said his main concern remains stopping Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. He made the comments while fuel prices and living costs continue to rise across the country. “The only thing that matters when I’m talking about Iran is they can’t have a nuclear weapon,” Trump told reporters. He added that he does not think about Americans’ financial situation while handling the conflict. The comments quickly drew attention because many families across the United States are dealing with higher costs for gasoline, food, electricity, and travel. Economic pressure has become one of the biggest public concerns ahead of the upcoming midterm election season. New government figures released this week showed that US inflation climbed to 3.8% in April. Economists say rising energy prices linked to the war have been one of the biggest reasons for the increase. Oil and gas prices have jumped sharply since military operations involving the United States, Israel, and Iran escalated earlier this year. Gasoline prices now average more than $4.50 per gallon in many parts of the country. Food prices have also increased by nearly 4%. Electricity bills, utility costs, and airline ticket prices have also gone up. Airlines have reportedly raised fares by more than 20% due to higher fuel expenses. Trump’s administration has struggled to give clear answers about when prices may return to normal. Chris Wright said earlier this year that fuel prices could fall by summer. However, he later admitted he could not predict exactly when relief would come. In another interview, Wright said gasoline prices below $3 per gallon may not return until next year. Trump himself recently said prices could become lower, stay the same, or rise slightly by November. At the same time, White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett tried to reassure Americans. He told Fox News that economic relief could arrive before the election season. Hassett also claimed Trump privately believes the conflict may end soon. Meanwhile, Marco Rubio argued that Americans are still in a better position than many other countries. Rubio said the United States is somewhat protected because it is a major oil producer. The economic effects of the conflict are not limited to America. Inflation is also rising in countries including Australia, Canada, South Korea, and the United Kingdom. Many governments are now warning citizens about growing living costs and economic uncertainty. Despite the pressure, Trump defended his economic policies during Tuesday’s appearance. He argued that the worst predictions about the conflict had not happened. He noted that some analysts had warned oil prices could reach $300 per barrel and feared the stock market could crash badly. Trump said those forecasts proved wrong. He added that inflation before the conflict was much lower and predicted the economy would improve after the war ends. According to Trump, oil prices would fall sharply if peace is reached. He also claimed the stock market would surge after the conflict is resolved. “When this war is over, oil is going to drop, the stock market is going to go through the roof,” Trump said. He added that the United States is entering what he called a “golden age.” However, many Americans remain worried about rising costs and economic stability. A recent survey from the University of Michigan showed that consumer confidence has fallen to levels last seen during the high inflation period of 2022. Economic experts say continued uncertainty around the conflict could keep prices elevated for months. Many households are already changing spending habits because of expensive fuel, groceries, and housing costs. Political analysts believe economic concerns may become a major issue during the midterm election campaign. Rising living costs have historically influenced voter opinion, especially when inflation remains high. Trump’s latest comments have now added to public debate over how leaders should balance national security concerns with the financial struggles facing ordinary citizens.