President Trump participates in a Cabinet meeting at the White House — 3/26/2026

Summary

• President Trump details the overwhelming success of "Operation Epic Fury" against Iran, claiming near-total destruction of Iran's navy, air force, missile/drone stockpiles, and defense industrial base within approximately three weeks, well ahead of the 4-6 week schedule.
• The administration states Iran is now "begging" to negotiate a deal based on a 15-point framework, with the core U.S. objective being to ensure Iran never obtains a nuclear weapon. Military pressure continues as negotiations proceed.
• Trump claims the U.S. economy and stock market (Dow 50,000, S&P 7,000) remained resilient despite the military action, with oil price increases less severe than anticipated. He attributes this to confidence in his leadership and U.S. energy dominance.
• Treasury Secretary Scott Bessett asserts U.S. economic strength insulated the country, with the dollar strengthening as a safe-haven asset. He highlights policy impacts: 44% of tax returns claimed new pro-growth tax cuts, and average refunds are up over 10%.
• A key domestic policy claim: a 98% reduction in drugs entering by sea due to border and maritime enforcement, with a focus now shifting to stopping land-based drug traffic.
• Trump criticizes NATO allies for not providing military support in the Iran conflict, calling it a failed test of reciprocity and suggesting it will affect future U.S. commitment to the alliance.
• The President cites specific domestic crime reduction results from deploying federal resources: crime down 75% in Memphis, a safe Mardi Gras in New Orleans, and Washington D.C. transformed into a "safe city."
• Trump highlights a "most favored nation" policy for drug pricing, claiming it will lower U.S. drug costs by 30-70%, paying the "lowest price in the world."
• A lengthy anecdote criticizes government waste, specifically the multi-billion dollar cost overrun and mismanagement of the Federal Reserve building renovation, contrasted with his efficient management of other projects.
• The administration frames its intervention in Venezuela as a successful joint venture, generating significant revenue for the U.S. and improving conditions in Venezuela, with oil production climbing.