Trump talks up military pressure on Iran while reminiscing about Cook's 'kiss my ass' call

President Donald Trump is once again turning up the heat on Iran, telling CNBC in a new interview that he 'expects to be bombing' the country if a diplomatic deal isn't reached soon. The comment, delivered with his usual bluntness, underscores his administration's hardline stance as the second round of peace talks approaches. Trump tied the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz directly to progress in negotiations, saying the vital waterway would stay closed until an agreement is signed.

The remarks come amid rising tensions in the Persian Gulf, where shipping disruptions have rattled global markets. The closure of the Strait-a key oil transit route-has been in place for several weeks, and Trump's refusal to budge on access adds pressure on Iranian negotiators. While the White House has not confirmed specific military plans, the president's language has sparked concern among allies and lawmakers wary of another Middle East conflict.

At the same time, Trump took a nostalgic turn in discussing his relationship with business leaders, particularly Apple CEO Tim Cook. He recalled a phone call from Cook during his first term, saying the executive reached out for help and 'kissed my ass'-a phrase he repeated for emphasis. Despite the crude wording, Trump described Cook as 'an incredible guy!!!' and praised his leadership, even as Cook prepares to step down from the CEO role later this year.

Cook's transition to executive chair has drawn reactions across the tech and business world, with figures like Sam Altman and Warren Buffett offering public comments. While Trump's anecdote drew eye rolls from some observers, it fits a pattern of using personal anecdotes to highlight his influence over corporate leaders. Apple has not commented on the specifics of the call Trump described.

Meanwhile, critics are focusing on the broader cost of Trump's foreign policy. The Guardian highlighted his proposed $1.5 trillion Pentagon budget, which would include a $445 billion increase in military spending. The plan, still under review, could lead to cuts in healthcare, housing, and other domestic programs. With inflation still affecting household budgets, some argue the priorities are out of step with public needs.

The administration defends the spending as necessary for national security, especially amid ongoing conflicts and global instability. But progressive voices warn that pouring money into defense while underfunding social services risks deepening inequality. As Trump continues to frame the Iran talks as a test of strength, the debate over how much to spend-and where-is becoming harder to ignore.

Whether it's through military threats or CEO callouts, Trump is leaning heavily on familiar tactics: projecting dominance, personalizing power, and keeping opponents off balance. With the Iran talks hanging in the balance and Cook's departure marking the end of an era at Apple, the coming weeks could test how much of that approach still resonates-both abroad and at home.