President Donald Trump has reportedly instructed United States national security officials to prepare for a prolonged blockade of Iran’s ports, aiming to pressure Tehran into abandoning its nuclear programme, according to The Wall Street Journal.
The report said Trump doubts Iran is negotiating in good faith and wants the country to halt uranium enrichment for 20 years, followed by strict long-term restrictions.
“They better get smart soon!” Trump declared, in a post on his social media platform.
Citing unnamed officials, the newspaper said the decision was made during a Monday meeting in the White House Situation Room, where Trump reportedly ruled out both renewed bombing and withdrawal as too risky.
Instead, he is said to favour sustained naval pressure, with the U.S. Navy continuing efforts to squeeze Iran’s key oil exports until Tehran agrees to Washington’s demands.
