Donald Trump has insisted Iran will “never have a nuclear weapon” as he cast doubt on the durability of the ceasefire over Iran’s handling of oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz.
Writing on Truth Social, Trump rejected criticism from The Wall Street Journal that he had declared a “premature victory”, saying: “Actually, it is a Victory… Because of me, IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON.”
However, he also criticised Tehran’s handling of the oil flow through the Strait of Hormuz, accusing the Islamic Republic of doing a “very poor job, dishonourable some would say” in allowing shipments through the vital route.
The comments raise fresh questions over the fragile ceasefire announced earlier this week, which Trump said was conditional on Iran reopening the Strait. Shipping traffic remains severely disrupted, suggesting the agreement is yet to fully take hold.
Trump is also considering withdrawing some US troops from Europe amid frustration that Nato allies have not done more to secure the waterway, according to Reuters.
Meanwhile, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he has authorised direct negotiations with Lebanon “as soon as possible” after one of the deadliest strikes on Wednesday killed 300 people.
