Washington: US President Donald Trump indicated on Wednesday that discussions with Iran regarding a deal to cease hostilities might resume "maybe at some point." He reiterated the United States' assertion of having "complete control" of the Strait of Hormuz.
According to Anadolu Agency, Trump addressed reporters about the situation with Iran, expressing confidence in the current state of affairs. He noted that talks could potentially resume in the future. When discussing Iran's nuclear capabilities, Trump emphasized the necessity of Iran eliminating its nuclear weapons, stating, "Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon, and they won't."
Trump highlighted the US's control over the Strait of Hormuz, acknowledging the occasional provocations by Iran, such as the shooting down of drones, but downplaying their significance. The memorandum of understanding signed in June between the US and Iran aimed at resolving their conflicts has faltered due to mutual accusations of violations and renewed hostilities.
Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, there has been no progress in reopening the Strait of Hormuz or advancing negotiations toward a more comprehensive agreement. Trump mentioned the possibility of imposing severe sanctions on Iran while affirming that the Strait remains open and operational.
Trump remarked on the effectiveness of the naval blockade and the strategic opening of the Strait through a deal that ultimately did not meet expectations. On the topic of rising gas prices, he pointed out that countries and US states have turned to alternative oil sources, and new pipelines are under construction, reducing the Strait's past significance.
The President cited the exploration of oil in Texas, Alaska, and Louisiana, along with a record number of pipelines being built, as factors diminishing the Strait of Hormuz's importance in global oil transportation.