Trump Hails 'Most Consequential Week' of His Presidency After Iran Strikes, and NATO Deal

By Ahora Qadi

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday described the past week as “the most consequential” of his presidency, citing the strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, a new NATO defense spending agreement, two economic deals, and a Supreme Court victory as hallmarks of a pivotal period in American leadership.

Speaking to Fox News, Trump opened up from the Diplomatic Room in the White House, reflecting on what he called a “wild” and transformative week for the United States. “In six months, we’ve taken the country and turned it around,” Trump said, adding that foreign leaders described the U.S. as “the hottest country in the world.”

Iran Strikes: “They Were Weeks Away From a Bomb”

Trump provided detailed insight into the U.S. military campaign targeting Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, emphasizing the decision was made after Tehran refused to abandon uranium enrichment. “Enrichment is a bad word,” he stated. “They’ve got so much oil—what do they need that for?”

The president confirmed that three primary nuclear sites were hit during what he called the “twelve-day war,” asserting that the strikes obliterated the facilities, including one located “30 stories deep into granite.” He credited American pilots and submarines for the success, saying the attacks “meant the end of their nuclear ambitions—at least for a period of time.”

He dismissed claims that Iran might have hidden enriched uranium prior to the strikes, noting the speed and precision of the operation made it impossible. “They didn’t know we were coming until just... then,” he said.

NATO and Global Alliances: “Unbelievable Progress”

Turning to foreign policy, Trump highlighted an agreement reached at the recent NATO summit for member states to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP. “The best insurance is if they don’t do it, you leave,” he said, reiterating his transactional approach to international alliances.

He also claimed renewed investment from Gulf countries following his diplomatic engagement in the Middle East, estimating $5.1 trillion worth of investment commitments from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar.

On Sanctions and Diplomacy: “You Get More With Honey”

The president addressed sanctions on both Iran and Syria, noting he had temporarily lifted measures on Syria at the request of regional partners to “give them a chance.” He emphasized a conditional approach to relief: “If they behave themselves… I would take the sanctions off.”

Asked about Iran’s decision to halt cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog, Trump downplayed the risk of immediate nuclear resurgence. “The last thing they want to do right now is think about nuclear,” he said, describing the regime as “exhausted.”

Looking Ahead: Abraham Accords and Trade with China

Trump suggested new countries could join the Abraham Accords, noting that “Iran was the primary problem” and expressing disappointment that Tehran missed the opportunity to normalize relations.

On China, Trump said a new rare earth mineral export agreement was reached, promising significant tariffs and tighter trade enforcement. Despite concerns over espionage and biotech threats, Trump described relations with China’s President Xi as positive, noting the economic leverage now favored the U.S.

“This has been an amazing period of time,” Trump concluded, hinting at more diplomatic and legislative milestones on the horizon.