US President Donald Trump stressed that ongoing talks with the Iranian side are showing positive progress, indicating that the current US administration will not allow Tehran to use the Strait of Hormuz as a means to blackmail Washington. Trump clarified in statements made from the White House that communications are continuing and moving in a good direction, affirming that his country is closely monitoring developments on the ground.
In a sharp attack on Iranian military capabilities, Trump considered that Tehran currently lacks effective naval power and air force, as well as the absence of unified leadership, according to his description. The US President went on to describe the current situation as a kind of forced regime change, noting that no one had dared to confront them in this way before the current administration.
Regarding repeated Iranian threats to close the strategic shipping lane, Trump downplayed the importance of these actions, asserting that the era of blackmail that lasted for years is over. He claimed in his speech that shipping traffic had not completely stopped, alleging that commercial ships that had crossed routes linked to the region had arrived in Texas and Louisiana, which reflects his confidence in securing supplies.
In contrast, the Khatam al-Anbiya headquarters of the Iranian Armed Forces announced a return to imposing strict control measures and restricting traffic in the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian sources attributed this decision to the continued naval blockade imposed by the United States on Iranian exports and imports, which prompted Tehran to retaliate in the waterway.
The spokesman for the Iranian headquarters clarified in an official statement that control of the strait has returned to its previous state under strict military supervision, and these measures will not be reversed except with specific guarantees. Tehran stipulated that for these restrictions to end, the United States must stop intercepting Iranian ships and allow them complete freedom of movement to and from their international destinations without harassment.
The Iranian statement indicated that Tehran had previously shown good faith based on negotiated understandings, allowing a limited and organized passage of oil tankers and commercial vessels. However, the Iranian side accused Washington of breaking those promises and continuing to engage in what it described as “piracy and looting” under the guise of the economic blockade imposed on the country.
International circles are awaiting the outcome of the coming hours, as Trump stated that his administration would receive updates and additional information by the end of the day regarding the course of negotiations and the situation on the ground. These developments come amid a state of tension between the two powers, with Washington insisting on a policy of maximum pressure while Tehran brandishes its strategic cards in the waters of the Gulf.
They cannot blackmail us as they have for years; we are talking to them and at the same time taking a very firm stance.
שתף את דעתך
Trump Defies Iranian Threats in Hormuz: The Era of Blackmail is Over