By Sadiq Abdulfatah

U.S. President Donald Trump has spoken about the recent seizure of Iranian-linked vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, describing the operation as “a very profitable business” for the United States.

He said U.S. naval forces took control of cargo and oil during the operation, adding that Washington has tightened its maritime actions in response to Iran’s activities in the strategic waterway.

Speaking at an event in Florida, Trump claimed Iran has been using the Strait of Hormuz as a form of pressure and said the United States responded by imposing its own restrictions at sea.

On the issue of diplomacy, he questioned the likelihood of a new nuclear agreement with Tehran, suggesting that it may be better not to pursue a deal, while also admitting the situation cannot remain unresolved indefinitely.

The comments come in the wake of heightened tensions following military strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran on February 28, which triggered retaliatory actions and disrupted shipping movement through the Strait of Hormuz.

A ceasefire was later arranged on April 8 through Pakistan’s mediation, followed by talks in Islamabad on April 11 and 12, although the discussions ended without agreement. Trump later extended the ceasefire without announcing a new timeline.

Since April 13, the United States has reportedly maintained increased naval pressure in the area, targeting Iranian-linked maritime activity in the region.

In response, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced new security operations along its coastal waters and the Strait of Hormuz under instructions from Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei.

According to Press TV, the IRGC Navy said it plans to strengthen control over Iran’s nearly 2,000-kilometre coastline, describing the move as part of efforts to protect national security and strengthen economic resilience.

Reports also indicate that the United States is working to build an international coalition aimed at restoring normal shipping movement in the Strait of Hormuz.

Source: Saudi Gazette