By Amjad Qaimkhani
WASHINGTON: Donald Trump has claimed that Iran wants the Strait of Hormuz to remain open so it can generate around $500 million per day in revenue.
In a statement, Trump said Iran was losing significant income due to disruptions in the key shipping route, while adding that the United States had imposed restrictions affecting maritime movement in the area.
He further said Iran did not actually want the strait closed but was making public statements to avoid embarrassment. He also claimed that contacts had been made suggesting Tehran was interested in reopening the route.
Trump warned that if the strait was reopened under current conditions, it could affect future negotiations with Iran, adding that talks would not succeed unless broader issues were resolved.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Amir Saeid Iravani said Tehran had received signals regarding easing of restrictions and indicated that Iran would participate in talks if such measures were lifted, calling it a key condition for resuming dialogue.
#Trump #Iran #StraitOfHormuz #OilTrade #MiddleEast #USIranTensions #BreakingNews
