Trump Praises Talks, Iran Launches Missiles

0:00On March 24, President Donald Trump stirred things up at a conference in Tennessee this week, pointing to Defense Secretary Pete Hagueceth as the one who first pushed for action against Iran. He described calling top advisers about Iran's long history of terror and its nearness to a nuclear weapon, saying Hagueceth jumped in with strong support. This comes as the war, now in its fourth week since late February, has shut down the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of the world's oil flows. Trump claimed peace talks with Iran kicked off recently and sound promising, with agreements on no nuclear weapons in sight. He praised Israel as a key partner, and noted postponing strikes on Iran's power plants for five days, while other U.S. operations continue. Iran denies any talks are happening and insists on full U.S. withdrawal and compensation before reopening the strait. The closure is hammering the global economy, with the international energy agency warning of a massive threat, like two oil crises, and a gas crash.

1:03Combined, experts say prolonged blockages could disrupt up to $1.2 trillion in exports, hitting Britain hardest in Europe due to its heavy, reliance on gas imports through the strait. Public reaction has soured, especially toward Hagueceth, whose approval rating dropped 10 points to minus 10 since the war began. European leaders like Ursula von der Leyen are urging an immediate negotiated end, citing skyrocketing energy prices affecting everyone. Just yesterday, Iran launched missiles at Tel Aviv and other Israeli sites, injuring people and causing damage right after Trump touted constructive talks. Israel vows to keep striking Iran and Hezbollah targets, while Trump hints the conflict could wrap up in a week if talks progress or bombing continues. Otherwise, tensions remain sky high as the world watches closely.