Trump Issues Stern Warning to Iran Over Strait of Hormuz Closure Threats
President Donald Trump has declared that Iran cannot 'blackmail' the United States, following renewed threats from Tehran to close the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. The president made these remarks during a press conference on Saturday, addressing the escalating maritime crisis in the Middle East.
Reports of Gunfire and Vessel Attacks in the Strait
According to multiple shipping and security sources, Iranian forces opened fire on ships attempting to cross the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, after Iran announced it had shut the waterway once more. At least two Indian merchant vessels reported being hit by gunfire as they tried to navigate the narrow passage. One of these ships was carrying approximately 2 million barrels of Iraqi oil, though the full extent of the damage remains unclear.
Maritime tracking data indicated that a convoy moving through the strait quickly scattered, with vessels dispersing in response to the incident. This marks the first major movement through the area since the onset of recent hostilities, highlighting the volatility of the situation.
Trump's Firm Stance and Ongoing Negotiations
Despite the tensions, President Trump revealed that talks between the US and Iran are 'going very well,' though he emphasized a tough approach. 'We're talking to them. We're taking a tough stand. They've killed a lot of people. A lot of our people have been killed,' he stated. Trump added that more information would be available by the end of the day, underscoring the fluid nature of the discussions.
The president warned that military action remains a possibility if the fragile ceasefire collapses, stating he could 'start dropping bombs again' if talks fail. He also insisted that a US naval blockade of Iranian ports would remain in place until a deal is reached, a move that has prompted fresh warnings from Iran about potentially shutting the strait again.
Iran's Defiant Posture and Leadership Statements
In a message posted on Telegram, Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, asserted that the Iranian navy is prepared to inflict 'new bitter defeats' on its enemies. This rhetoric aligns with Iran's actions to re-start the blockade, citing the US refusal to lift what Tehran describes as a naval blockade of its ports as justification for closing the Strait of Hormuz.
Executive Order on Psychedelic Drug Research Announced
During the same press conference, President Trump signed an executive order aimed at easing access to psychedelic drugs for treating PTSD in veterans. He was joined by advocate Joe Rogan and RFK Jr., announcing a $50 million investment into research on ibogaine, a naturally occurring psychoactive substance from Central Africa.
'Today, we're bringing them new hope,' Trump said, predicting a significant reduction in veteran suicides. He cited study findings showing an 80 to 90 percent reduction in symptoms of depression and anxiety within one month of ibogaine use, highlighting the dual focus of his administration on both international crises and domestic health initiatives.
