Politis

Trump on Iran: 'High IQ Chess Game' – Rates Talk with Macron an 8

Published March 17, 2026, 08:20
Trump on Iran: 'High IQ Chess Game' – Rates Talk with Macron an 8

Donald Trump reiterated the need for naval escorts in the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing that the response from allies to his request was satisfactory, rating his conversation with Emmanuel Macron an 8 out of 10. He also stressed that the US does not need help, but allies should contribute due to previous American support. He attributed the crisis to Iran, characterizing it as a superpower and accusing China of owing him gratitude for starting the "war". Britain and Germany rejected a NATO mission to secure shipping lanes, while Japan and Australia also did not commit to military assistance. Some analysts, such as Philip Gordon, believe that Trump is "reaping what he has sown" with his previous policies and questioning the value of allies. They also point out that the US initiated a crisis without consultation and now expects assistance. Trump described the situation as a "high-level chess game" with "smart players" and expressed surprise at Iran's aggression. He emphasized that Iran is a great power and that its attacks on Gulf states were shocking. The United Arab Emirates warned that they are losing patience. The Audit Office report highlights serious delays and "fictitious shortages" in the management of the country's mineral wealth, with emphasis on the Androlikou area, where quarrying activity has negative impacts on biodiversity and water resources.