WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump warned Iran on Thursday to immediately stop charging fees to oil tankers passing through the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Reacting to reports of such activities, Trump cautioned that such measures “better not be” happening and demanded an immediate halt to any interference with maritime traffic.
A strong message attributed to Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has vowed to seek “vengeance” for the dead and demand compensation from attackers. The statement warned of taking the Strait of Hormuz into a “new phase” and urged Arab neighbors to distance themselves from Western powers.
In an interview with NBC on Thursday, President Trump claimed that Iran’s leaders are being forced to agree to terms because they have been effectively “conquered” and have “no military” left. He warned that if Tehran fails to reach a final deal, the consequences will be “very painful.” Meanwhile, Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf signaled a willingness to negotiate only if the US stops violating its commitments, warning of renewed hostilities otherwise.
As the diplomatic standoff continues, the nationwide internet blackout in Iran has entered its 41st day, exceeding 960 hours of disruption. Despite international pressure, Iran’s nuclear chief asserted on Thursday that efforts to limit the country’s uranium enrichment program would fail. Adding to the regional tension, Iraq’s oil ministry confirmed that no Iraqi tankers have navigated the Strait since the ceasefire announcement, following reports from Press TV that the waterway remains effectively closed.
With input from Iran International.
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