Donald Trump announced a series of military and security steps being taken by the United States in the Strait of Hormuz region, while also disclosing updates on contacts and negotiations with Iran.
Trump said:
"As of now, the U.S. Navy will begin an operation to stop all ships attempting to enter or leave the Strait of Hormuz."
He added: "I have also ordered naval forces to search for and intercept every ship in international waters that has paid fees to Iran."
He continued: "We will also begin destroying the mines the Iranians have placed in the Strait of Hormuz."
He underscored his military stance, saying:
"Any Iranian who fires at us or at peaceful ships will be killed."
Regarding political contacts, he said:
"I received a briefing from Vance, Witkoff, and Kushner on the meeting held in Islamabad."
He added: "Most points were agreed upon, but the only point that really matters — the nuclear file — was not agreed upon."
He went on to criticize Tehran: "Iran promised to open the Strait of Hormuz, but deliberately failed to keep its promise, and this has caused concern and disruption for many countries."
He also noted that: "What was agreed is better than continuing the military operation, but it does not compare to having nuclear energy in the hands of unstable people."
He revealed additional military reinforcements, saying:
"We will also bring in more conventional minesweepers, and we expect Britain and other countries to send minesweepers as well."
He added: "NATO now wants to help regarding the Strait of Hormuz, and many countries will help us as well."
He continued: "The post about wiping out Iranian civilization is what brought the Iranians to the negotiating table."
He said: "I expect the Iranians to return to the negotiating table and to give us everything we want."
As for oil, he said: "Oil and gas prices will eventually decline when this is over."
