Washington, Jun 22: US President Donald Trump has intensified his rhetoric against Iran even as high-level negotiations between Washington and Tehran got underway in Switzerland to ease tensions in the Middle East.
Speaking during a phone interview with Fox News and later in a post on Truth Social, Trump warned Iran against disrupting shipping through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz and accused Tehran-backed groups in Lebanon of escalating regional instability.
Trump reportedly cautioned that any attempt to block the vital waterway would invite a strong US response, while also warning Iran to restrain Hezbollah militants or face tougher military action.
Meanwhile, the first round of US-Iran talks concluded with a positive development. Mediators Pakistan and Qatar announced that both countries had agreed to establish a communication line aimed at preventing misunderstandings and ensuring the safe passage of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.
The negotiations, led by US Vice President JD Vance and Iranian chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, are part of a broader diplomatic effort to reduce regional tensions and seek an end to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Responding to Trump’s remarks, Iran warned that its armed forces were prepared to respond if threatened, while reiterating its commitment to safeguarding its national interests.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes, and any disruption there could significantly impact global energy markets and international trade.
