Daijiworld Media Network - Washington

Washington, Apr 14: US President Donald Trump stated that Iran will not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons, while confirming that a US-led naval blockade has already begun.

Speaking during an unscheduled interaction near the Oval Office, Trump reiterated that the central point of contention with Tehran is its nuclear programme. He insisted that Iran must agree to abandon any nuclear weapons capability, warning that without such a commitment, no agreement would be possible.

He also suggested that diplomatic channels remain open, claiming that Iran had reached out to restart negotiations and expressing confidence that a deal could still be reached. According to him, Tehran is under strong pressure to return to the negotiating table.

On military developments, Trump confirmed that a naval blockade had been launched, framing it as part of broader efforts to curb Iran’s regional influence and restrict its ability to “blackmail” the global economy. He further claimed that several countries had offered support in enforcing the blockade.

Highlighting the strategic importance of global energy routes, Trump referred to the Strait of Hormuz, noting that while the United States does not rely on it for energy supplies due to domestic production, much of the world depends heavily on it for oil transit.

He also made sweeping claims about Iran’s military strength being significantly weakened and warned that consequences would follow if no agreement is reached, without providing further details.

Trump added that China has shown interest in seeing tensions resolved, although no direct outreach has been made. He indicated that additional developments regarding international cooperation on the blockade could be announced later.