Trump Threatens to Annex Strait of Hormuz as Iran Vows Sole Control Over It

US President Donald Trump announced plans to declare the Strait of Hormuz American territory soon and promised to severely impact Iran's economy. Iran rejected these threats, with Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi stating that the Strait will only be opened or closed by Iran's command, asserting, "We are not intimidated." Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi clarified that recent message exchanges with Pakistan and Qatar do not constitute negotiations, and no decision has been made regarding talks with the US.

In a rare interview on public television, Brigadier General Reza Nakdi, senior advisor to the commander of the Revolutionary Guards Ahmad Vahidi, claimed Iran is on the winning side as the US has failed to overthrow the regime. Nakdi accused the US of waging a war without strategy and shifting goals, suggesting prolonging the conflict until a new US president is sworn in to deter attacks. He justified attacks on civilian ships in the Strait by alleging they could supply enemies. Nakdi also highlighted Iran's missile stockpile, stating Iran produces more missiles daily than it launches, warning that losing missile capability would endanger Iranian assets globally.

When questioned about Iran's lack of nuclear weapons compared to the US, Nakdi said no one would allow such a crime today and expressed hope that Israel would collapse internally, similar to apartheid South Africa. Regarding the absence of Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei since an assassination attempt during the opening of Operation "Lion's Roar," Nakdi cited security reasons and declined to comment on any meetings with him.

The White House responded by urging Iran to accept a deal, warning that Iran knows the consequences if it does not.