A stark ultimatum hung in the air as the President, during a Monday press conference, outlined a potential future for Iran – one defined by devastation if a deal wasn’t reached by the following day. He spoke of crippling attacks on Iran’s infrastructure, envisioning decimated bridges and silenced power plants, reduced to smoldering ruins.
The exchange began with a question about Iran potentially continuing to charge tolls for passage through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. But the President’s response took an unexpected turn, revealing a different idea altogether.
“What about *us* charging tolls?” he countered, seemingly misinterpreting the reporter’s inquiry. The question wasn’t about allowing Iran to profit, but about the United States seizing control of the revenue stream itself.
He passionately argued for American dominance, declaring, “I’d rather do that than let them have them, right? Why shouldn’t we? We’re the winner. We won!” A pre-existing “concept” for toll collection, he revealed, was already under consideration.
The President insisted the reporter’s question would have been more fitting if framed around American initiative. He painted a picture of a militarily defeated Iran, reduced to symbolic gestures like deploying mines, easily countered by superior American power.
Reports had surfaced indicating Iran was already levying fees on vessels navigating the Strait after a period of heightened tensions and targeting of commercial shipping. This context fueled the President’s contemplation of a US-controlled toll system.
Prior statements had hinted at a desire to capitalize on the Strait’s importance, suggesting the possibility of “easily OPEN[ing] THE HORMUZ STRAIT, TAKE THE OIL, & MAKE A FORTUNE.” The idea of financial gain clearly resonated with the administration.
The President’s rhetoric painted a grim picture, suggesting a willingness to escalate conflict to achieve complete objectives “very shortly.” He alluded to a future where the Strait would reopen, but not through negotiation, rather “naturally,” implying a forceful resolution.
