Iran War: Trump Warns Against US Being Blackmail

US President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to Iran, urging the country to stop using the Strait of Hormuz as a tool to pressure the United States. He emphasized that Tehran could not force Washington into submission by closing the critical waterway again.

Iran’s Threat to the Strait of Hormuz

Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued a warning late Saturday, threatening to target vessels approaching the key waterway. The group claimed the strait would remain closed until the US lifts its naval blockade on Iranian ports and shipping.

“No ship, of any kind, should leave its anchorage in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman. Any vessel entering the strait will be considered cooperation with the enemy and attacked,” the IRGC declared.

Additionally, the IRGC warned the US Navy that it would face a significant retaliation if it launched an assault on Iranian vessels.

Diplomatic Tensions Escalate

Iran’s deputy foreign minister, Saeed Khatibzadeh, stated that the country is not prepared to hold direct negotiations with the US until Washington softens its strict demands. “We are still not there yet to move on to an actual meeting because there are issues the Americans have not yet abandoned their maximalist position,” he said in an interview with the Associated Press.

“No enriched material is going to be shipped to the United States. This is a non-starter,” Khatibzadeh underscored, rejecting Trump’s claims.

He also highlighted that Iran will not yield on its main concerns, insisting that the other parties must acknowledge and resolve these points before proceeding to face-to-face discussions.

International Reactions

The German government condemned an attack on a UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon, which killed a French soldier and injured three others. “Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends of the fallen soldier,” the Foreign Office wrote on X, calling for accountability of those responsible.

India’s External Affairs Ministry addressed the incident, noting its deep concern over the shooting of two Indian-flagged ships in the Strait of Hormuz. The ministry emphasized the importance of merchant shipping safety and recalled Iran’s prior role in ensuring the passage of vessels bound for India.

Iran’s Strategic Posture

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council announced it was assessing “new proposals” from the US. The body affirmed its determination to protect national interests, stating that its delegation would not concede even the smallest ground.

“The Iranian nation’s interests will be defended with all strength. There will be no compromise, retreat, or leniency,” the council declared.

These statements reflect Iran’s firm stance as tensions persist between the two nations.