US President Donald Trump drew criticism on Monday after saying Iran could “take out” Los Angeles or San Diego while arguing that higher prices linked to the Iran conflict were a “small price to pay” for security. His remarks were made during a campaign rally in Grand Island, Nebraska.
Trump was discussing the economic impact of the conflict when he said Americans were temporarily facing higher costs in exchange for keeping the United States and the wider world safe.
“It’s a small price to pay for keeping the world safe, keeping our country safe,” Trump said.
He then added: “They can take out a city. Let them take out Los Angeles. Let them take out San Diego. This is a very small price to pay.”
The context of the remarks appeared to be Trump’s argument about the potential threat posed by Iran, although his comments about the two California cities quickly prompted criticism. The Los Angeles Times noted that it was unclear whether the remarks were intended seriously or in jest.
Trump also predicted that the conflict with Iran would end soon, saying it was “essentially almost over with,” while acknowledging that fighting could continue longer. He said prices would subsequently fall “very sharply.”
California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the president’s comments, accusing Trump of saying that foreign adversaries should “take out” Los Angeles and San Diego and describing the remarks as “deranged and dangerous.”
San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria also objected, saying: “San Diego is not collateral damage. We are not expendable.”