Trump: "Maritime Blockade on Iran to Remain Until Nuclear Deal Is Reached"

U.S. President Donald Trump told the American media outlet Axios on April 29 (local time) that he would maintain the maritime blockade against Iran until Iran agrees to a nuclear deal.

In a telephone interview with Axios that day, President Trump stated that the blockade would remain in place until the Iranian regime agrees to a deal that addresses U.S. concerns over its nuclear program.

President Trump told Axios, "The blockade is somewhat more effective than bombing," adding, "Iran is suffocating and things will only get worse for them. Iran cannot have nuclear weapons."

He continued, "They (Iran) want a deal. They do not want the blockade," and added, "I also do not want to lift the blockade, because I do not want them to possess nuclear weapons."

U.S. President Donald Trump. White House

원본보기 아이콘

Previously, Iran had sent a proposal through a mediator suggesting a temporary postponement of nuclear negotiations after declaring an end to hostilities and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. As disagreements over the nuclear deal remained unresolved, Iran suggested putting off sensitive discussions for the time being. It is known that the White House discussed Iran's proposal internally but rejected it.

President Trump considers maintaining the blockade on Iran as a key bargaining chip. However, according to Axios, if Iran does not agree to the nuclear deal, military action is being considered.

Citing sources, Axios reported that U.S. Central Command is preparing a "short-term and powerful airstrike plan" against Iran to break the deadlock in the negotiations.

Meanwhile, Iran announced through its state-run Press TV that "substantial and unprecedented measures will soon be taken" in response to the U.S. maritime blockade.

© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.