Trump Defends Iran Campaign as U.S. Forces Enforce Strict Naval Blockade

United States President Donald Trump delivered a comprehensive address regarding the American campaign against Iran, issuing firm statements on the human toll and the overarching goal of halting Tehran's nuclear program. These remarks come amid a strict U.S. naval and economic blockade against Iran in the Gulf of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz, where U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces continue to enforce the blockade.

The Heavy Price and the Nuclear Threat

During his speech, Trump emphasized the ongoing efforts against Iran, which he noted have lasted for seven months, comparing them to past American campaigns such as Vietnam and Afghanistan. Trump disclosed that 21 U.S. service members have lost their lives during the operations, alongside several wounded.

The hardest thing I have to do is to go and meet the families of these heroes, said Trump, adding that the sacrifices were not in vain and that American forces have prevented Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

CENTCOM Enforces Strict Naval Blockade

Parallel to these statements, military operations continue along Iran's trade routes. CENTCOM forces disabled a commercial cargo vessel in the Gulf of Oman. The Panama-flagged M/V Ocean Molica attempted to breach the ongoing naval blockade after departing from an Iranian port.

According to the command, the ship's crew ignored repeated warnings, prompting a U.S. fighter jet to strike the vessel's stern with precision-guided munitions, completely disabling its propulsion system without injuring any crew members.

Tightening the Economic Noose

The recent incident in the Gulf of Oman is part of a broader, aggressive policy. On July 14, CENTCOM renewed the general blockade on all vessels entering or leaving Iranian ports. Data shows that over the past three months, four commercial ships have been disabled, and 135 others were forced to turn back after being intercepted by American forces.