‘Very tough sanctions’; Trump warns Iran, questions Hormuz’s strategic importance

Washington: US President Donald Trump has warned Iran of “very tough sanctions” while claiming that the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route, has declined.

Trump said the US has several options against Iran and that the next step would be decided based on the situation. He also claimed that the Strait of Hormuz remains open and that many vessels continue to pass through it.

Describing the US naval blockade against Iran as “very effective”, Trump claimed that no ships had entered Iran. He said increased US oil production and alternative supply routes had reduced global dependence on the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump said a possible agreement with Iran could lead to a sharp fall in oil prices, while the US would otherwise continue with its current strategy.

Meanwhile, Ali Abdullahi, head of the Iranian Armed Forces, warned West Asian countries against providing assistance or facilities to the US military. He said locations used to launch attacks against Iran could be treated as legitimate targets.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghai also rejected allegations that Iran had fired ballistic missiles towards the UAE, describing the claims as “baseless.”