Trump Rejects Iran's Proposal, Vows Continued Naval Blockade Over Nuclear Concerns

Trump Rejects Iran's Proposal, Vows Continued Blockade

President Donald Trump told Axios he will keep Iran under a naval blockade until the regime agrees to a deal that addresses U.S. concerns about its nuclear program. The announcement follows Iran's proposal to first open the Strait of Hormuz and lift the blockade, while postponing nuclear negotiations.

U.S. Military Prepares for Potential Strikes

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has developed a plan for a "short and powerful" wave of strikes on Iran in an effort to break the negotiating deadlock, according to three sources with knowledge of the matter. The strikes would likely target infrastructure, followed by a push for Iran to return to negotiations with greater flexibility.

As of Tuesday night, Trump had not ordered any military action. He did, however, post an AI-generated meme depicting himself holding a gun with the warning, "NO MORE MR. NICE GUY," directed at Iran.

Blockade Remains Primary Leverage, Military Action Possible

For now, Trump views continuing the blockade as his primary source of leverage over Iran. However, sources indicate he would consider military action if Iran refuses to negotiate. During a 15-minute phone interview with Axios on Wednesday, Trump declined to discuss military plans.

Trump's Statements on Iran and the Blockade

"The blockade is somewhat more effective than the bombing. They are choking like a stuffed pig. And it is going to be worse for them. They can't have a nuclear weapon,"

Trump told Axios. He claimed Iran seeks a deal to lift the blockade, stating, "They want to settle. They don't want me to keep the blockade. I don't want to [lift the blockade], because I don't want them to have a nuclear weapon."

Trump also asserted that Iran's oil storage and pipelines "are getting close to exploding" due to the blockade, as Iran cannot export oil. Some analysts question whether Iran faces immediate danger on this front.

Iran Warns of 'Unprecedented' Response to Blockade

A senior Iranian security source quoted by PRESS TV, Iran's English-language state media, warned on Wednesday that the U.S. naval blockade "will soon be met with practical and unprecedented action."

The source stated that Iran's armed forces have shown restraint to allow diplomacy a chance and provide Trump with an opportunity to end the conflict. However, the source emphasized, "Iran's armed forces believe that patience has limits and that a punishing response is necessary" if the blockade persists. Additional details from the interview are expected to be published soon.