Iran is 'emboldened and confident' despite Trump threats, former US defence secretary says

Former US Defence Secretary Mark Esper, interviewed on ABC's This Week, asserts that Iran's latest demands to open the Strait of Hormuz indicate the country's rulers are confident and emboldened by their position in the ongoing conflict with the US. This comes after recent US and Israeli strikes against Iran at the end of February, which have heavily disrupted the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial shipping lane.

The Iranian response, according to Esper, has been to hold firm and not back down from threats. He highlighted Iran's recent attacks on a Saudi refinery and a UAE ship, demonstrating Iran's willingness to flex its muscles using Houthi proxies. Esper also mentioned Iran's attempt to attack an Egyptian Mediterranean port and a threat against Bulgaria to support US operations from its territory, further expanding the conflict.

He suggested that the US should consider implementing a stronger economic boycott against Iran. It's worth noting that Esper was dismissed by President Trump shortly after Joe Biden won the 2020 presidential election. Despite these actions, recent reports suggest Trump is still involved in endless negotiations with Iran, following attacks that led to Iran taking control of the Strait of Hormuz.

In 2026, there have been reports of a potential agreement between Iran and Oman to manage traffic in the Strait, but this proposal still requires higher-level approval. Iran is seeking to charge roughly 5% of cargo value as fees, a demand that the US has rejected. However, maritime experts warn that allowing Iran to impose tolls would undermine the principle of freedom of navigation, which is crucial for global trade.

The US public's support for Trump's handling of the conflict has also dwindled, with a recent CNN survey showing only 28% of voters approve of Trump's approach, while 74% believe it has hurt the US.