Washington, May 02 (V7N): US President Donald Trump has once again strongly defended his strategy of applying economic pressure on Iran, expressing confidence that it will ultimately force Tehran into negotiations on Washington’s terms.

According to a report by Al Jazeera on Saturday, Trump claimed that the ongoing blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is inflicting significant financial losses on Iran. He also said that continued sanctions targeting Iranian individuals and institutions are having a major impact on the country’s economy.

The US administration believes that sustained economic pressure will eventually compel Iran to return to the negotiating table under its conditions.

Meanwhile, the US Treasury Department has announced a new measure stating that sanctions will be imposed on any individuals or entities that pay tolls to Iran for passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a move widely seen as a serious escalation.

In a parallel development, the US State Department has introduced a new initiative titled “Maritime Freedom Construct.” The program will operate under the direct supervision of the US Central Command.

The initiative is expected to form a coalition of vessels that agree to US terms for navigating the strait. In return, participating ships will receive protection from the US Navy and will not be required to pay tolls.

Analysts say the United States is attempting to strike a delicate balance—maintaining pressure on Iran while also ensuring global oil supplies continue, as disruptions could significantly impact the world economy.

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