US President: We impose full control over the Strait of Hormuz, and Iran has no means to counter the naval blockade

Washington, Aug 12 (KUNA) -- U.S. President Donald Trump affirmed on Wednesday that the naval blockade on Iran is akin to a “wall of steel,” and that Tehran has “no means” to counter it, as it faces significant economic pressure. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump stated, “The United States of America has complete control over the Strait of Hormuz. I believe we will maintain this control.” He added, “Everyone calls our naval blockade a wall of steel, and Iran has no way to confront it. It has no navy, no air force, and its remaining soldiers are not being paid. The Revolutionary Guard is suffering widespread destruction and fleeing the field, and its leadership is unstable.” He pointed out that “Iran has no money and is exhausted. All it has is fake news and 300 percent inflation, and the situation is getting worse,” emphasizing that Iran “is no longer the bully in the Middle East.” U.S. forces had resumed the naval blockade on ships heading to Iranian ports and coastal areas, or coming from them, starting July 14, in response to attacks on commercial vessels, obstruction of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, and violations of the memorandum of understanding signed between the two sides. (End) A.M.M. / T.M.A.