10.03.2026 08:21
President Trump responded to a reporter's question, "You said you would help the people of Iran, but now you seem ready to end the war. Isn't this a betrayal?" with, "I would like to help them if they can behave properly. The system they are currently in only allows for failure."
U.S. President Donald Trump made striking statements regarding the ongoing war with Iran and developments in the region. When reminded of his words about helping the Iranian people, Trump criticized the Iranian government with his response and also conveyed a message about the future of the war.
THE QUESTION THAT CORNERED TRUMP
At a press conference, when a reporter asked, "You said you would help the Iranian people. But now, it seems you are ready to end this war once military targets are completed. Isn't this a betrayal?" Trump used positive expressions towards the Iranian people but harshly criticized the current government.
"THE IRANIAN PEOPLE ARE A WONDERFUL PEOPLE"
Emphasizing the qualities of the Iranian people, Trump stated, "I would like to help them if they can behave properly. The Iranian people are a wonderful people; smart, energetic, and very talented."
However, Trump argued that the current political structure in Iran is leading the country to failure and said that the system needs to change. Trump remarked, "But the system they are currently in only allows for failure."
"WE WANT A SYSTEM THAT WILL NOT ATTACK US"
Stating that the goal of the U.S. administration is lasting peace in the region, Trump expressed that a system should be established where Iran will not attack the U.S. and will provide long-term stability. Trump said, "We want a system that will not attack us and will bring peace for many years."
In the continuation of his statement, Trump made a striking warning. He indicated that if such a system cannot be established, it might be better to conclude the war quickly, stating, "If this is not possible, then it might be better to finish it now." Trump's words were interpreted as a message indicating that military pressure and expectations for political change are being pursued together in the U.S. policy towards Iran.
WHAT DID TRUMP SAY?
In the past, U.S. President Donald Trump has made numerous statements separating the Iranian people from the Iranian government and directly addressed the Iranian people with messages of assistance. Here are some of his notable statements:
- In one of his speeches, Trump emphasized that they do not target the Iranian people, addressing the "great and proud Iranian people" and saying that their chance for freedom has arisen. He called on Iranians to "take over your government when we are done."
- During the protests in Iran, he also sent messages of support to Iranians, saying, "continue the protests, take over your institutions, help is on the way."
- He also promised immunity and security to Iranian security forces if they lay down their arms, arguing that this would help the Iranian people take back their country.
- In some of his statements, Trump criticized the current system in Iran, suggesting that the country might need a change of government with the slogan "Make Iran Great Again."