Donald Trump says Iran "cannot blackmail" the US with a new closure of the Strait of Hormuz
The President of the United States, Donald Trump, said this Saturday that Iran does not have what it takes to pressure his government with the threat of a new closure of the Strait of Hormuz, and highlighted the "positive conversations" they are having with Tehran, before which they have adopted a "firm stance". "(Iranian leaders) wanted to close the strait again, you know, just as they have been doing for years, but they cannot blackmail us," affirmed the president during an event in the Oval Office where he did not answer press questions about the conflict with the Islamic Republic.
TL;DR
- Donald Trump stated Iran cannot blackmail the U.S. by threatening to close the Strait of Hormuz.
- He mentioned "positive conversations" with Iran while maintaining a "firm stance."
- Iran claims to have reasserted "strict control" over the Strait of Hormuz.
- The Strait of Hormuz was previously blocked by Tehran.
- Trump suggested that Iranian leadership is weak and described the situation as a "forced regime change."
- Negotiations with Iran are ongoing, with Trump hoping for an agreement soon.
- The U.S. might not extend the current ceasefire if a peace agreement isn't reached, potentially resuming bombings.
- Iran has reportedly not accepted new negotiations due to "excessive demands" from Washington and U.S. naval blockades.