U.S. President Trump stated that the U.S. maritime blockade of Iranian ports must continue, with his team already laying the groundwork for such an extension, including the prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump is currently examining a strategy aimed at exerting maximum economic pressure on Iran to force Tehran back to the negotiating table without resorting to military strikes. However, the approach to managing a conflict that has now lasted nine weeks carries risks for Trump, who previously predicted this conflict would not exceed six weeks.
The closure of the strait has driven up gasoline prices, intensified American fatigue over the ongoing war, and pushed Trump’s approval ratings to new lows. The costs of this conflict are mounting—America has already spent $25 billion on the war against Iran. All of this is heightening Republican anxiety about the prospects for the November elections.
It remains unclear whether this strategy will succeed—Iran has previously demonstrated an ability to endure devastating economic hardship without yielding to U.S. demands.
Nevertheless, Trump appears determined to intensify control over Iran’s economy until Tehran concedes on the nuclear enrichment red line, asserting that the U.S. “holds all the cards.” “The blockade is more effective than bombing. They’re suffocating like pigs stuffed full. Their situation will get worse. They cannot have nuclear weapons,” he said.
Trump hinted that the U.S. is preparing for a long-term challenge, suggesting the Iran war could end on a timeline similar to that of the Ukraine conflict, which has dragged on for over four years with no sign of quick resolution.
Two individuals familiar with the discussions said U.S. officials have reviewed intelligence indicating that under blockade pressure, Iran’s economy can withstand only a few weeks—or even days—longer, as Tehran faces difficulties storing unsold oil.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1863853997456394/
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