Washington: US President Donald Trump has claimed that the United States is “essentially controlling” strategic waterways linked to Iran and will soon take full control. He reiterated that Tehran would not be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons.
In an interview, Trump defended US military action against Iran and acknowledged that the conflict could push up petrol and energy prices for Americans. He claimed Iran’s military leadership, navy and air force had been severely weakened, making negotiations difficult.
Trump also defended US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, saying they were necessary to prevent Tehran from developing nuclear weapons. He claimed Iran had lost significant missile and drone capabilities and was facing economic pressure.
Iran rejects US ‘economic war’ strategy
Tehran: Iranian officials criticised Washington’s latest measures, accusing the US of shifting from military pressure to an “economic war”.
Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said the US was trying to conceal what he described as the failure of its military campaign by escalating economic pressure.
Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi called US economic measures “economic terrorism” and warned that they could threaten the global economy and national sovereignty.
Trump has also threatened “very Draconian sanctions” against Iran, while arguing that increased US energy production and alternative supply routes have reduced the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz.
