Trump Says Strait of Hormuz Could Reopen Soon, Warns Iran of Severe Strike

As contacts between the United States and Iran continue, President Donald Trump is sending a dual message: while speaking of progress in the negotiations and the possibility of an agreement, he is making clear that if the talks collapse, the U.S. will not hesitate to use military force. In an interview with Fox News this morning (Wednesday), Trump spoke at length about developments involving Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, which has become a focal point of regional tensions.<\/p>

According to the American president, the talks with Tehran are moving in a positive direction, even if the Iranians do not publicly acknowledge it: "We have very good discussions with Iran. They do not like to admit it. They lie all the time. They want to make a deal, and if they do not agree to a deal, it is a shame."<\/p>

Still, Trump stressed that the military option remains on the table. Asked when he would decide that it was time to end diplomatic efforts, he replied: "I have a lot of time." He added an explicit warning that if the Iranians once again derail the negotiations, the United States "will hit them hard."<\/p>

Trump referred to the large-scale attack that had been considered: "The big attack has not come yet, and I hope we will not have to use it," noting that he has already decided to postpone that attack several times in recent weeks.<\/p>

On the issue of the Strait of Hormuz, Trump said he believes it could reopen soon, either through an agreement or following military action: "A lot of progress has been made. The Strait of Hormuz could open tomorrow. They saw the military buildup, and they would be very smart to make a deal. It was a very good day. The negotiations were good."<\/p>

In the interview, Trump was also asked whether political considerations, especially the U.S. midterm elections, are affecting his decision to delay another American strike against Iran. According to him, they have no immediate impact: "I have a lot of time. People talk about the midterm elections — in the midterm elections, people want to see victories."<\/p>

Meanwhile, The Wall Street Journal reported overnight that the U.S. administration is once again seeking a framework similar to the one that took shape in June, under which a ceasefire would first be reached and negotiations with Iran would take place only afterward.<\/p>

On the other side, Tehran continues to project a firm message against American pressure. An Iranian source told a media outlet in the country that "the agreement regarding the Strait of Hormuz will be delayed as long as the United States threatens Iran." According to the source, "Iran will not reach any agreement under threats," adding that "the main reason for the delay in the agreement with Oman regarding the Strait of Hormuz is American interference."<\/p>