Trump: Shift to economic war on Iran does not mean our military options are limited

- We have full control over the Strait of Hormuz, and Tehran wants to reach an agreement, but it is not ready for the right deal

As Washington prepares to intensify financial pressure on Tehran, U.S. President Donald Trump affirmed that the shift to an “economic war” against Iran does not mean that the United States’ military options have become limited, noting that his country is monitoring developments in the conflict.

Trump told reporters late Friday as he departed Washington for South Carolina that Iran is looking to reach an agreement with the United States, but it is “not ready for the right deal.”

In response to a question about whether the shift to economic war means limited U.S. military options against Iran, Trump said: “It simply means that we are watching what is happening.”

He added that the United States has “full control” over the Strait of Hormuz, as well as vast land areas, stating that Iranians “strongly desire” to reach an agreement, but they are not yet prepared to conclude the deal that Washington deems appropriate.

Trump pointed out that Iran’s economic situation is extremely difficult, saying that inflation is extremely high, reaching 300%, and that Tehran no longer has enough money to pay the salaries of police and military personnel.

Trump’s remarks come as the United States prepares to impose new sanctions on Iran, which U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described as “the harshest financial sanctions in history,” with details to be announced on Monday.