Trump Warns Iran Against ‘Blackmail’ as Tensions Rise Over Strait of Hormuz Closure
Cargo ships in the Gulf, near the Strait of Hormuz. Photo/Courtesy
By Ruth Sang
U.S. President Donald Trump has warned Iran against attempting to “blackmail” Washington amid escalating tensions over renewed restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy corridor.
Speaking on Saturday, Trump said the United States would not be pressured by Tehran’s actions, even as reports emerged that the vital shipping route had been shut and at least two vessels came under fire.
“Iran cannot blackmail the United States,” Trump said, adding that Washington was engaged in “very good conversations” with Tehran but accused the country of overstepping. “They got a little cute,” he said, noting that the U.S. was “taking a tough stand” and promising further updates by the end of the day.
Iran, however, maintained that it was tightening control over the Strait, warning mariners that the route remained closed. The move comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions and concerns over global oil supply disruptions.
Tehran said its actions were in response to what it described as a continued U.S. blockade of Iranian ports, which it termed a violation of an existing ceasefire agreement.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei issued a stern warning, stating that the country’s naval forces were prepared to inflict “new bitter defeats” on its adversaries.
The developments mark a significant escalation in the standoff, raising fears of further instability in one of the world’s most strategically important maritime routes.
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