Donald Trump Calls Iran a ‘Failed Country’, Says US Will Make Decision on Tehran Soon

US President Donald Trump has described Iran as a “failed country” and said Washington will make a decision on Tehran “very soon”, as tensions between the two countries continue amid an ongoing conflict and stalled diplomatic efforts. Trump cited Iran’s economic difficulties and claimed that the government was struggling to pay its military personnel, but did not specify what action the United States was considering.

Trump Cites Iran’s Economic Crisis

Speaking to reporters outside the White House on Tuesday, October 13, Trump criticised Iran’s economic condition and claimed that the country was facing extremely high inflation and financial difficulties.

“Iran is a failed country,” Trump said, adding that the country had no money and was not paying its troops. He also claimed that inflation had reached 300%. The figure was part of Trump’s remarks and was not independently established by the reports reviewed. The US president did not provide a timeline beyond saying that Washington would decide on its next steps regarding Iran “very soon”. Donald Trump Rejects Iran's War Reparations Demand, Files Counter-Claims for US Casualties.

'US Will Make Decision on Tehran Soon'

US-Iran Tensions Continue Amid Uncertainty Over Next Steps

Trump’s remarks come amid the ongoing US-Iran conflict, which began on February 28, 2026, following US and Israeli strikes on Iran. Tehran retaliated with attacks on Israel and Gulf states hosting US military bases, widening the regional confrontation.

Washington has maintained economic pressure on Iran, including a naval blockade of Iranian ports, while diplomatic efforts to end the conflict have made limited progress. The dispute also involves the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. Recent attacks on commercial vessels have added to concerns over maritime security and energy prices.

Trump’s Earlier Statement on Military Action

Trump’s latest remarks come days after he said the United States would not attack Iran before the November 3 US midterm elections, citing ongoing discussions with Tehran. However, his latest comments have renewed uncertainty about Washington’s longer-term strategy and the possibility of further military action. US Military Finalises Iran Strike Preparations As Donald Trump Weighs Pre-Election Timing.

The US president has not outlined the specific decision he intends to make. The situation remains fluid as Washington continues to weigh military and economic pressure against efforts to reach a settlement with Iran.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 14, 2026 07:51 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).