Trump says US retains escalation capacity against Iran, Strait of Hormuz open

WASHINGTON, United States — WASHINGTON — US President Donald Trump said Monday that the United States still retains the capacity to escalate against Iran and that Washington will seek compensation from Tehran for damages. "If they ask for compensation, they should pay us for 50 years of damage they have caused," Trump said. Speaking at the White House, Trump said the Strait of Hormuz is currently open, with a large number of ships transiting, and that control of the waterway rests solely with the US Navy. He added that mines across the full length of the strait have been cleared. Trump indicated he is prepared to increase economic pressure on Tehran rather than launch a new military operation, saying Iran's economy is in very poor condition and that the government lacks the funds to pay its forces. He argued that a US naval blockade is deepening Iran's crisis. The comments came as Washington continues to weigh its options on Iran policy. No further details on the proposed compensation claims or naval posture were immediately available.