President Trump pushes back on health questions as new year brings policy shifts and global tensions

President Donald Trump is pushing back against growing speculation about his health and age, as questions mount during the early days of the new year.

(NBC)- President Donald Trump is pushing back against growing speculation about his health and age, as questions mount during the early days of the new year.

In a new interview with The Wall Street Journal, the president addressed recent concerns, including speculation surrounding medical tests and images showing bruising on his hands. Trump said the scan he underwent in October was a CT scan — not an MRI — and blamed the bruising on taking high doses of aspirin to thin his blood. He added that he has ignored doctors’ advice to lower the dosage.

“I think I’m sharper than I was 25 years ago,” Trump said.

At 79 years old, Trump is on track to become the oldest president to serve a full term. Age was a frequent line of attack he used against former President Joe Biden during the 2024 campaign, and it now remains a topic of scrutiny as his second term begins.

The president is also facing growing foreign policy challenges. Tensions with Iran appear to be escalating after protests erupted there amid an economic downturn. Speaking alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu earlier this week, Trump suggested the U.S. would support Israeli action if Iran attempted to restart its missile program.

“I hear Iran is trying to build up again, and if they are, we’re going to have to knock them down,” Trump said.

Iran’s president later responded on social media, warning that any attack would be met with a “harsh and regrettable” response.

Domestically, several new laws are taking effect across the country, many tied to issues central to Trump’s 2024 campaign. In North Carolina, a new law bans the use of state funds for gender transition surgeries and allows lawsuits against medical providers. In Texas, diversity, equity, and inclusion programs are now banned in public schools.

As the new year begins, the administration faces a mix of domestic policy shifts and mounting international pressure — setting the tone for what could be a contentious year ahead.