Kevin Hassett, Director of the National Economic Council, has brushed aside concerns that an extended conflict in Iran could harm U.S. consumers, stating it is “the last of our concerns right now.” In an interview on CNBC, Hassett sought to reassure the public about rising petrol prices and potential supply chain disruptions caused by Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.
The average U.S. petrol price currently stands at $3.79, an increase of 71 cents from a year ago. Analysts have warned that reduced oil flow from the Middle East could significantly impact the global economy. However, Hassett claimed that even if President Donald Trump’s four-to-six-week timeline for military operations were extended, it “wouldn’t really disrupt the U.S. economy very much at all.”
Hassett added that while an extended war would hurt consumers, the administration is confident the operation is “ahead of schedule.” He insisted he has “a plan for every corner of the disruption from fertilizer to getting fuel to the West Coast.” His comments are part of a broader effort to portray the conflict positively, despite polling indicating most Americans disapprove of the war.
Democratic lawmakers swiftly criticised Hassett’s remarks. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer wrote on X: “Hassett really said this out loud. On live television. It’s almost unbelievable until you remember they are both the dumbest and cruelest among us.” Representative Katherine Clark, House Minority Whip, noted: “A Trump official just said that everyday Americans are the ‘last of [their] concerns right now.’ On national TV.”
White House Spokesperson Kush Desai defended Hassett, stating he “repeatedly discussed how he is constantly thinking about the short-term economic impacts” and is examining measures to mitigate disruptions. Desai added that once the goals of “Operation Epic Fury” are achieved, the U.S. will move past these short-term issues.
