Trump: “Port blockade to remain unless there is an agreement with Tehran”

Beirut, 18 Apr. (LaPresse/AP) – Following Iran’s announcement that it had reopened the Strait of Hormuz to commercial vessels, US President Donald Trump stated that the American blockade “will remain in full force” until Tehran reaches an agreement with the United States, including on its nuclear programme. When asked by a journalist last night what he would do if no agreement were reached by the time the ceasefire expires next week, Trump replied: “I don’t know… But perhaps I won’t extend it, so there will be a blockade and unfortunately we’ll have to start bombing again.” He then added, addressing the journalists accompanying him on board Air Force One en route to Washington, that an agreement “will be reached” and categorically rejected the idea of restrictions or tolls imposed by Iran on the Strait of Hormuz. Earlier, Trump had celebrated the Iranian announcement, posting on social media that the strait was “completely open and ready for transit”. A few minutes later, however, he posted another message stating that the US naval blockade would continue “until our deal with Iran is 100% complete”.