Trump Rejects Iran Ceasefire: Strait of Hormuz Will Open Eventually
Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump has officially dismissed the prospect of a ceasefire in the intensifying conflict with Iran, asserting that the American military campaign will proceed until its objectives are met. Speaking to the press before boarding Marine One on Friday, the President characterized the current state of hostilities as one where a truce would be inappropriate given the level of military pressure being applied.
“You don’t do a ceasefire when you’re obliterating the other side,” Trump told reporters, according to a report by Hindustan Times. While he expressed an openness to dialogue, he remained firm that active combat operations would continue unabated. When questioned on whether Israel would conclude its involvement once U.S. military goals are achieved, the President indicated he believed that would be the case.
Central to the global concern is the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime corridor for a fifth of the world’s energy supply, which has been largely obstructed by Iranian forces. Addressing the blockade, Trump predicted the passage would “open itself” at a certain point. However, he emphasized that securing the waterway should be a collective international effort.
The President criticized several allies and global powers for their perceived lack of “courage” in assisting to unblock the channel. He specifically called for participation from nations heavily reliant on the route, such as China and Japan, noting it would be “nice” to see them involved. Additionally, Trump signaled frustration with the United Kingdom, suggesting they should have provided faster authorization for the use of military bases.
Despite the ongoing disruption to global energy markets, the President remained guarded regarding specific military targets, such as Kharg Island. Amid reports of further Marine deployments to the region, Trump declined to disclose future tactical plans to the media, maintaining a stance of strategic ambiguity.
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