Trump: "Fed should cut rates... Can't comment on possible Iran attack"

U.S. President Donald Trump once again demanded a rate cut from the Fed (Federal Reserve), expressing an unclear stance on the United States' possible intervention in an attack on Iran.

On the 18th (local time), according to Walter Bloomberg, President Trump said, "I've always argued that the Fed should cut rates," and "Fed Chairman Jerome Powell is unlikely to lower rates today." He continued, "He's not a smart person. He's only done a terrible job," raising his voice in criticism.

He also shared his stance on interest rate cut expectations. Trump said, "If the Fed lowers rates, we'll be able to purchase government bonds at a much lower cost," and added, "The current rate should be lower by 2%p. It would be better if it were down by 2.5%p." Furthermore, he noted, "At first, we'll respond in the short term by sharply lowering rates, then shift to a long-term strategy."

The Fed is scheduled to announce the rate decision at 3 a.m. (KST) on the 19th.

He also stated his position on the possibility of a U.S. attack on Iran. Trump said, "I can't say whether the U.S. will strike Iran. An airstrike on Iran may or may not happen."

He took a hardline attitude toward Iran's moves. He said, "Iran has reached out to me to suggest negotiations," and "I replied that it's too late now."

He explained further, "Iran should have negotiated earlier," and "There is a very big difference between now and just a week ago." It was reported that Iran also proposed a visit to the White House. However, he added, "Nothing is ever too late," leaving room for possible negotiations.

He went on to emphasize that he would not tolerate any more. Trump said, "'Unconditional surrender' means I won't tolerate it any longer," and continued, "Watch and see what happens. Nothing is over yet." He added, "I told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to keep going."