US President Donald Trump answered reporters' questions at a signing ceremony held at the White House.
Claims about Iran's military capability
Trump suggested that Iran's military strength has suffered serious losses. Using the phrases 'Their navy is gone, their air force is gone, their leaders are dead, their economy has collapsed,' Trump claimed that the country's missile, drone, and air defense systems have also taken a heavy blow.
Strait of Hormuz and nuclear weapons warning
Pointing out that the Strait of Hormuz is being kept open, Trump stated that they have achieved two key outcomes. Trump assessed, 'First, the strait is open and will remain open. Second, Iran will never have nuclear weapons.'
Emphasizing the US military dominance in the region, the President said, 'We have full control over the Strait of Hormuz. If Iran does not fulfill the requirements of the agreement or does not behave appropriately, I will do what I have to do.'
Naval blockade threat
Trump stated that he thinks a naval blockade against Iran is more effective than airstrikes, and said a similar measure could be quickly put back into effect if necessary.
Trump said, 'As long as they respect us, we will have no problems,' and noted that the situation could change if Iran does not show respect to the US.
Regional diplomacy and Israel statement
To a question about the impact on regional stability of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's statement that the Israeli army would maintain its presence in Lebanon, Trump replied, 'I am a problem solver, I solve problems very quickly.'
Without directly criticizing Netanyahu, Trump praised the diplomacy carried out by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and said his administration has the capacity to solve the region's problems.
Switzerland talks and personnel assessment
The US President praised his Vice President JD Vance's statements in Switzerland, saying 'He is a very smart man, he did a great job.'
Criticizing some Democratic politicians, Trump argued that the Republican administration has a stronger team on foreign policy and national security issues.
