The president made these statements during a campaign event held in Nebraska, where he also referred to the impact of the war with Iran on gasoline prices.
Trump stated that the increase in fuel prices is a small cost compared to what, he claimed, is involved in maintaining the security of the United States and the rest of the world.
"Gas prices are a bit high. It's a small price to pay for keeping the world safe, for keeping our country safe," stated the American president.
Trump then directly raised the possibility of Iran attacking two major cities in California: "They can destroy a city. Let them destroy Los Angeles. Let them destroy San Diego. It's a very small price to pay".
The president added that the conflict with Iran would soon be ending. "And all of this will end very soon. Practically, it's almost over," he assured during his speech.
These statements come amid tension between the United States and Iran and as the evolution of the conflict has consequences on energy markets. The price of gasoline has become one of the issues used by Trump to explain to citizens the economic impact of the international situation.
The president's comments about Los Angeles and San Diego have garnered special attention as they are two of the main cities in California and the United States. Trump linked the possibility of an attack on American territory with the economic cost that, according to his argument, is involved in maintaining national security during the conflict.
The president's intervention once again places the war between the United States and Iran, fuel prices, and the consequences of a possible military escalation at the center of the American political debate.