US President Donald Trump said Iran cannot “blackmail” the United States over threats to close the Strait of Hormuz, as tensions escalated following Tehran’s announcement that it would resume blocking the key shipping route.
Trump said Washington was in talks with Iran but insisted it would not be pressured, stating the US was taking a “tough stand” in response to what he described as repeated attempts to use the waterway as leverage.
US President Donald Trump said Iran cannot “blackmail” the United States over threats to close the Strait of Hormuz, as tensions escalated following Tehran’s announcement that it would resume blocking the key shipping route. pic.twitter.com/GUppxayUMv
— Middle East Eye (@MiddleEastEye) April 18, 2026