Trump says Iran is 'in deep trouble' as US maintains blockade of Strait of Hormuz

On Thursday evening, US President Donald Trump asserted that Iran is currently experiencing significant difficulties, stating that "Iran right now is not paying its soldiers. They are in deep trouble. They have very little capability left."

Trump further elaborated on the United States' presence in the Strait of Hormuz, mentioning, "Last night we moved 24 ships through the strait. We move them all the time. I'm saying this openly." He emphasized that military activity in the area had not ceased, adding, "As you know, the Strait of Hormuz is open. We have control and we have a blockade. Iran is getting nothing. Nothing is going through. No ship is going through."

When asked about potential repercussions for Russian President Vladimir Putin for continuing to engage in trade with Iran, Trump indicated that the response would hinge on the specific circumstances, noting, "Up to now, I think Russia has behaved pretty well when it comes to the Strait of Hormuz."

Addressing Russia's commitment to not attacking NATO territory, Trump affirmed, "I had good conversations with him. He is not going to attack NATO territory." Though he declined to confirm if he had warned Putin against such an action, Trump reiterated, "I don't want to comment on that, but they are not going to attack."

Regarding potential sanctions on Chinese banks that conduct business with Iran, Trump remained tight-lipped, saying, "Who said I'm not? You're asking why not, who said? You don't know if I'm doing it. I don't have to announce everything, right?"

On the prospect of renewed negotiations with Iran, Trump indicated that the US did not wish to engage in discussions, stating, "We don't want to talk to them. We're not looking to meet or something like that. The strait is open, we are moving a lot of ships. Millions and millions of barrels of oil are going through the strait every day." He also confirmed that the US had cleared the Strait of Hormuz of mines, claiming, "We have the best minesweepers in the world."

Furthermore, Trump disclosed that the US was closely monitoring Iran through its Space Force, asserting, "We see every inch of the strait. Every ship that enters with a mine, we see it and destroy it. We have already destroyed two of them."

Meanwhile, sources close to the matter informed The Wall Street Journal that the Trump administration has consistently communicated to mediators their lack of interest in reverting to the terms of the memorandum of understanding signed with Iran in June. This stance has hindered ongoing attempts to resume diplomatic negotiations.

The sources also suggested that the initial agreement, formulated with Vice President JD Vance's assistance, aimed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and initiate talks regarding Iran's nuclear program and the cessation of the conflict, contingent upon sanctions relief.