Donald Trump has claimed that the Strait of Hormuz is “very functional” despite the occasional rocket or drone attack in another bizarre rant, reports BritPanorama.
Speaking to Fox News on Wednesday, the US president reiterated that the vital oil waterway is “open” and had been fully demined despite continued attacks on ships.
“It’s a functioning Strait. Yes, every once in a while there’ll be a drone or a rocket or something shot, but it is a very functioning Strait. A lot of oil is pouring out,” he stated.
His comments followed remarks from Oman and Iran, indicating that an agreement on future control of the Strait had not yet been finalised.
“The Strait of Hormuz belongs to Iran and the country of Oman. We have been in negotiations with Oman for about a month, and we have reached results that are acceptable to both sides,” said Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps spokesperson Hossein Mohebbi, as reported by Iranian state media.
Trump has cautioned Oman against cooperating with Iran, warning during a Fox News interview on August 17: “If Oman gets in the way, we’ll bomb the s*** out of them.”
In related developments, the US president indicated there is “no time schedule” for resuming negotiations with Iran, asserting, “I’m not in a hurry. I have no time schedule at all.”
He claimed, “We are winning very big,” despite the ongoing conflict, which has led to significant turmoil within Iran.
As concerns about safety in the region continue, a tanker was reportedly hit by an unidentified projectile in the Strait of Hormuz, leading to a fire that was promptly extinguished, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). Fortunately, all crew members are safe, and there were no environmental impacts reported.
The situation in the Gulf remains tense, as fluctuations in oil prices and maritime safety continue to be closely monitored amidst ongoing negotiations over the navigational routes vital for global energy supplies.
As diplomatic and military movements unfold in this critical region, the international community watches carefully, aware of the potential ramifications of these developments.
