President Trump Warns Against 'Blackmail' As Iran Tightens Hormuz Control | US Iran WAR | N18G

Why It Matters

The statement underscores escalating US‑Iran tensions that could disrupt oil flow through Hormuz, affecting global energy prices and regional security.

Key Takeaways

• Trump says talks with Iran are progressing despite Strait tensions.
• Warns Tehran not to blackmail United States over Hormuz closure.
• Notes increased Iranian attempts to block commercial shipping routes.
• Claims Iran supports bomb makers responsible for U.S. soldier casualties.
• Suggests U.S. naval assets will reposition to Texas and Louisiana.

Summary

President Donald Trump warned Iran that attempts to “blackmail” the United States by tightening control of the Strait of Hormuz would not succeed, reiterating a hard‑line stance amid rising regional tensions.

Trump claimed ongoing “very good conversations” with Tehran, asserting that the talks are “working out very well” despite Iran’s historic pattern of closing the strait. He highlighted Iranian support for bomb makers linked to U.S. casualties and emphasized that Iran lacks a navy, air force, and legitimate leadership.

The former president quoted, “They’ve gotten away with murder for 47 years, not anymore,” and pointed to U.S. commercial vessels now routing toward Texas and Louisiana as evidence of a strategic shift.

Analysts see the remarks as a signal that the U.S. may increase naval deployments and pressure Iran, potentially unsettling global oil markets and influencing diplomatic calculations ahead of upcoming elections.

Original Description

President Donald Trump said on Saturday (April 18) that Iran could not blackmail the United States by closing the Strait of Hormuz, as Tehran warned mariners the vital energy route was again shut and at least two vessels reported coming under fire.

Trump said the U.S. was having "very good conversations" with Iran but that Tehran "got a little cute" by trying to close the strait again. He said Washington was "taking a tough stand" and promised information by the end of the day.

Iran said it was tightening control over the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, warning mariners the vital energy route was again closed,

Tehran said it was responding to a continued U.S. blockade of Iranian ports, calling it a violation of their ceasefire, while Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei said Iran's navy was ready to inflict "new bitter defeats" on its enemies.

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