Tehran said that the return to the blockade of a strategic point on the world map is a response to the ongoing blockade of Iranian ports by the United States, which it called a violation of the ceasefire. Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei said the Iranian navy was ready to inflict “new bitter defeats” on its enemies.
Sources cited by Reuters indicate that on Saturday at least two Indian-flagged ships were fired upon and hit while trying to transit the strait.
State media in Iran, citing the Supreme National Security Council, reported that Iran's control over the strait involves a demand for costs related to security, environmental protection and security services.
See also: What next with the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz? Strong market reaction to news from Iran
State television also quoted the Supreme National Security Council as sayingThe United States presented the new proposals after Pakistan-brokered talks in recent days. Tehran has considered them but has not yet responded.
Donald Trump: We're taking a tough stance
Reuters emphasizes that Tehran's renewed decisive statement has created new uncertainty around the conflict with Iran, increasing the risk that oil and gas shipments through the strait could be disrupted just as Washington is considering extending the fragile ceasefire.
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In response, Donald Trump emphasizes that Iran cannot blackmail the US. “We talk to them. They wanted to close the strait again – you know, like they've been doing for years – and they can't blackmail us” – said the US president during an event at the White House.
He said there would be “some information” about Iran soon, adding: “we are taking a tough stance.”
