Trump threatens Iran not to fire on US ships
On May 4, Xinhua News Agency reported from Washington (reporters Huang Qiang and Xu Jianmei) that U.S. President Trump threatened during an interview with Fox News Channel that if Iran fired on U.S. ships in the Persian Gulf or near the Strait of Hormuz, it would be "wiped off the face of the Earth."
When asked about the readiness of the U.S. military, Trump stated that there are currently only two options: either Iran sincerely reaches an agreement, or the U.S. will ultimately have to restart military operations. He said that all preparations for the U.S. military are underway, with sufficient supplies at all bases, and the U.S. military can mobilize and use these resources at any time.
When asked about the possibility of negotiating with Iran and achieving success, Trump said that compared to the past, Iran's attitude has become more softened. Under the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports and continued pressure, Iran has "shown some flexibility."
On the same day, Trump posted on social media that Iran fired on ships, including a South Korean cargo ship. The U.S. sank seven Iranian small boats. Apart from the South Korean cargo ship, no other vessels have been reported damaged in the Strait of Hormuz.
On May 3, Trump announced that the U.S. would begin a diversion operation on the morning of May 4 local time in the Middle East, to "guide" ships trapped in the Strait of Hormuz out of the strait. U.S. Central Command Commander Cooper stated to the media on May 4 that Iran fired multiple cruise missiles and drones at U.S. Navy vessels and commercial ships "protected" by the U.S. military, and the U.S. subsequently sank six Iranian small boats.
On May 4, 2023, Iran fired upon U.S. Navy vessels and a South Korean cargo ship in the Persian Gulf. In response, the U.S. Navy sank 6 Iranian small boats. President Trump warned Iran of severe consequences if they continue such actions, stating that U.S. military readiness is high and resources are available for deployment. The situation reflects a shift in Iran's stance amid ongoing U.S. pressure and blockade.
- Trump threatened Iran with severe consequences if they attack U.S. ships.
- Iran fired upon U.S. Navy vessels and a South Korean cargo ship.
- U.S. Navy sank 6 Iranian small boats in response to the attacks.
- U.S. military readiness is reportedly high with sufficient resources available.
- Iran's attitude has softened under U.S. pressure and blockade.