The US ambassador to NATO supported the rejection of the Islamic Republic’s seven-day proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by the US president.

Matthew Whitaker said on Fox News on Saturday: “President Trump has been very successful with the naval blockade and sanctions. Their economy is paralyzed, completely bankrupt, their money is weak, and inflation is high. You know they are very eager for an agreement.”

He added: “But these half-measures they propose or imaginary deals they offer to make themselves look good on the world stage are not acceptable. So President Trump has every right to reject it.”

Whitaker said the US position remains that the Islamic Republic cannot have nuclear weapons and must give up its nuclear program. He added that the US has “full control” of the Strait of Hormuz and that the US blockade prevents the passage of Islamic Republic vessels, while allowing other ships to transit.