Donald Trump described Iran as having “lost everything” across all fronts, dismissing the idea of a ground invasion at this time as a “waste of time.” Speaking to NBC News amid the seventh day of escalating conflict in the Middle East, Trump responded to recent comments by Iran’s foreign minister — who suggested Tehran was prepared for a potential ground incursion — calling them an “unnecessary statement” and implying such a move is not under current consideration.
“It’s a waste of time. They’ve lost everything. They’ve lost their navy. They’ve lost everything they could possibly lose,” Trump said.
He added that the U.S. military has ample resources to sustain ongoing operations, emphasizing its vast stockpile of munitions — far greater than many realize. “We have enormous munitions, more than ever before. We have plenty stored in other countries,” he stated.
Trump reiterated his desire to shape Iran’s future, saying, “We want to move in and clean everything up.” He stressed that the goal is not to install a leader who would take a decade to rebuild the country, but rather someone capable of effective governance. “We want them to have a good leader. We have some people we believe would do a good job,” he said — though he declined to name any individuals. He did confirm that efforts are underway to protect those potential figures, saying, “We’re watching them — yes.”