Trump: Considering Gradual Downgrade of Actions Against Iran, Strait of Hormuz Must Be Guarded by "User Countries"

On March 20, Xinhua News Agency reported from Washington that U.S. President Trump stated on social media that the United States is "very close" to achieving its goals and is considering a gradual de-escalation of military actions against Iran. He also mentioned that the Strait of Hormuz must be defended by the countries that use the strait.

Trump said, "We are very close to achieving our goals," which include weakening or destroying Iran's missile capabilities, defense industrial base, naval and air forces, and nuclear capabilities, as well as protecting allies in the Middle East.

Trump also stated that the Strait of Hormuz must be guarded and patrolled by other countries that use the strait as needed, and "the U.S. does not use it." If these countries request assistance, the U.S. will help them conduct relevant operations in the Strait of Hormuz.

Earlier that day, Trump told the media while leaving the White House for Florida that "we can talk to Iran, but I don't want a ceasefire," and remarked, "What is there to talk about a ceasefire when you are completely destroying the other side?"

According to a report from the Islamic Republic News Agency on the 20th, Ibrahim Rezaei, spokesman for the Iranian Parliament's National Security and Foreign Policy Commission, stated that Iran currently has no plans to negotiate with the United States, and claims regarding a ceasefire or negotiations are false information spread by the U.S. to control energy prices.