US Vice President JD Vance said the administration is committed to the economy of its citizens, while the main focus on Iran remains preventing nuclear weapons.
The comments came after Trump, as he left the White House on Tuesday, was asked whether the financial situation of Americans was a factor motivating him to reach a deal with Iran.
"Not at all. The only thing that matters when I talk about Iran: they can't have a nuclear weapon. I'm not thinking about the financial situation of Americans ," Trump declared.
During a press conference on Wednesday, Vance said Trump's statements had been misinterpreted as an attempt to defend the president, regarding accusations that the war has brought economic ruin.
"Well, I don't think the president said that. I think that's a misinterpretation of what the president said," Vance told reporters.
The statement sparked backlash and criticism, as it was interpreted by political opponents as a lack of concern for the economic situation of American citizens. In response, Vance stressed that the administration remains committed to both national security issues and the country's economy.
" Look, I agree with the president that Iran should not have a nuclear weapon. We are certainly engaged in a very aggressive diplomatic process and very committed to making sure that doesn't happen. But of course, the president, I and the whole team, we care about the financial health of the American people ," he said.
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