President Donald Trump characterized the conflict in Iran as “small potatoes,” defending Vice President JD Vance’s assertion that it should not be called a “war.” Trump stated the US is conducting “intermittent strikes” and that the conflict is “not a big thing,” comparing the 18 US service member deaths to those in the Vietnam and Afghanistan wars. This comes after Vance, during a White House briefing, argued there was “no active shooting” and that major combat operations had ended months ago.
The administration’s downplaying of the conflict coincides with concerns about rising gas prices, with diesel reaching a record $5.85 a gallon, and a decrease in oil tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, where 102 ships transited last week compared to 126 before the conflict and at least 130 daily pre-war. Despite Trump insisting oil flow has rebounded, shipping data indicates a significant reduction.
The US is also seeking UN action against Iran for noncompliance with nuclear nonproliferation obligations, drafting a resolution to refer Iran to the UN Security Council, though this faces potential vetoes from Russia and China. The draft resolution, under consideration since June 2025, would request the IAEA director general to transmit it to the Security Council and General Assembly.
While Trump framed the conflict as minor, he also stated the US would not allow Iran to develop a nuclear weapon and suggested potential strikes on Pickaxe Mountain, a site linked to Iran’s nuclear program. The administration’s messaging has evolved, with Trump previously calling the conflict a “little skirmish” and an “excursion.” The administration’s attempts to minimize the conflict's impact have drawn criticism as the situation continues and the November midterm elections approach.
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