US President Donald Trump answered reporters' questions at a signing ceremony at the White House.
Claims about Iran's military capacity
Trump suggested that Iran's military power 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 been dealt 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 important outcomes. Trump assessed, "First, the Strait is open and will remain open. Second, Iran will never have a nuclear weapon."
Emphasizing the US's military superiority 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 properly, 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 that a similar practice could be quickly re-implemented if necessary.
Saying "We will not have a problem as long as they respect us," Trump noted that the situation could change if Iran does not show respect to the US.
Regional diplomacy and Israel statement
In response 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 conducted by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and conveyed that his administration has the capacity to solve problems in the region.
Switzerland talks and staff assessment
The US President praised the statements made by his Vice President JD Vance in Switzerland, saying "A very smart man, he did a great job."
Criticizing some Democratic Party politicians, Trump argued that the Republican administration has a stronger staff on foreign policy and national security issues.
