Trump: Iran ships approaching Hormuz blockade will be 'swiftly and brutally eliminated' like drug boats
Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- The US has imposed a naval blockade on Iran, effective immediately, following the collapse of peace talks.
- President Trump warned that any vessel approaching the blockade would be "swiftly and brutally eliminated," comparing the action to how drug smuggling ships are dealt with.
- The US is also threatening a 50% tariff on countries supplying military goods to Iran, while Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps has vowed to respond forcefully to any military vessels entering the Strait of Hormuz.
In a dramatic escalation of tensions, the United States has implemented a full naval blockade of Iran, a move that comes in the wake of failed peace negotiations. President Donald Trump issued a stark warning, declaring that any vessel daring to approach the US blockade would face immediate and "swift and brutal" elimination, drawing a chilling parallel to the forceful interdiction of drug smuggling vessels. This aggressive stance signals a clear intent to cripple Iran's oil export revenues and exert maximum economic pressure.
If any one of these vessels comes anywhere near our blockade, we will eliminate them immediately using the same lethal weapons we use to apprehend drug smugglers at sea. It is swift and brutal.
The US Central Command confirmed the blockade, stating it applies to all maritime traffic entering or leaving Iranian ports, regardless of nationality. This action is presented as a direct response to presidential orders, aiming to cut off a vital financial lifeline for the Iranian regime. Trump's rhetoric, emphasizing the "swift and brutal" nature of the response, leaves no room for ambiguity about the administration's willingness to use lethal force.
Adding another layer to the pressure campaign, Trump also threatened a hefty 50% tariff on nations found to be supplying military equipment to Iran. This broadens the scope of US action, targeting not only Iran directly but also its potential international partners. The administration appears determined to isolate Iran economically and militarily on all fronts.
We will not let Iran make money by selling oil only to countries friendly with them.
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has responded with defiance, asserting that passage through the Strait of Hormuz is permitted under specific regulations for civilian vessels. The IRGC warned that any military vessels approaching the strait would be considered a violation of the ceasefire agreement and would be met with a firm response. This exchange highlights the volatile situation in the region, with both sides signaling a readiness for confrontation.
Any military vessel approaching the strait will be considered a violation of the ceasefire agreement and will be met with a firm response.