In a report on February 9th (local time), U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to impose a 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum products imported into the United States. He disclosed this plan to reporters aboard Air Force One en route from Florida to New Orleans to attend the Super Bowl.
Trump stated, “Any steel coming into the U.S. will be subject to a 25% tariff.” When asked about aluminum, he confirmed it would also be subject to trade penalties. These new tariffs are in addition to existing ones on steel and aluminum.
He also announced plans to reveal reciprocal tariffs on the 11th or 12th, which will be enforced almost immediately. Reciprocal tariffs mean the U.S. will impose import duties when other countries impose tariffs on American goods. Trump emphasized fair trade by imposing reciprocal tariffs on countries that impose unfavorable trade conditions on the U.S.
During his first term, Trump had invoked Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act to impose a 25% tariff on steel and a 10% tariff on aluminum for national security reasons. At that time, South Korea negotiated an exemption from steel tariffs by accepting a quota system to limit export volumes.
Regarding recent remarks on the Gaza Strip, Trump expressed willingness to allow reconstruction by other Middle Eastern countries. He reiterated his plan to acquire and own the Gaza Strip, aiming to develop it into a potential site for future growth. Trump assured the protection of Palestinian residents in the Gaza Strip and promised to consider admitting Palestinian refugees to the U.S. on a case-by-case basis.
Moreover, he mentioned plans to meet with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, suggesting that Middle Eastern countries will accommodate the relocation of Palestinian residents after their discussion.
In a related note, Trump declined to discuss details or timing of a phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, as reported by Reuters from an interview with the New York Post.