Donald Trump said the Islamic Republic must give up pursuing a nuclear weapon and that, until then, the United States will continue to pressure Tehran through economic sanctions and tight control of the Strait of Hormuz. He emphasized that despite the Strait of Hormuz being open, the U.S. maritime blockade has been effective and has prevented the Islamic Republic from using this waterway.

Trump added that Washington, if necessary, is prepared to intensify its actions and described the economic situation and the Islamic Republic’s military capabilities as very weak.