BlockBeats News, April 19, according to Al Jazeera, U.S. President Trump attempted to project optimism, suggesting that ongoing negotiations could still achieve a breakthrough. However, this claim faces increasing skepticism, especially as Iran indicated that the Strait of Hormuz has been closed again after a brief reopening.
Sinan Azodi, Director of Middle East Studies at George Washington University, expressed doubt about Trump’s message and warned that the on-ground situation is vastly different. “I’m not sure I can believe what President Trump claims is true. The president tends to make many assertions that are not necessarily accurate.
For instance, when he says the Iranians will give up their enriched uranium… the Iranians have 100% denied this.” Azodi believes that Iran’s renewed blockade of the strait is a response to the U.S. “double blockade,” with Iran understanding that Hormuz is its “biggest bargaining chip.” (Jin10)
