Former US President Donald Trump has issued a strong warning to Iran amid escalating tensions over the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, indicating that military action remains a possibility if negotiations fail. In an interview with Axios, Trump said Iran must address US concerns before any easing of restrictions, rejecting Tehran’s proposal to first reopen the vital shipping route and lift the blockade ahead of nuclear talks. He emphasized that Washington would not concede leverage without clear commitments from Iran.
“They are choking… and it is going to be worse for them. They can’t have a nuclear weapon,” Trump stated, underlining his administration’s firm stance on Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
According to the report, Trump currently views the blockade as a strategic pressure point in negotiations. While he did not disclose specific military plans, he acknowledged that force could be considered if diplomatic efforts fail to yield results.
The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, handles a significant share of global oil and gas shipments. Any prolonged disruption is expected to ripple across international markets, raising concerns about supply shortages and price volatility.
Amid these developments, economist Jeffrey Sachs cautioned that the global economy could face severe consequences if the situation persists. Speaking at the FICCI Legend Series, Sachs highlighted the fragile state of energy markets and warned of a potential economic crisis triggered by sustained supply disruptions.
“The world economy will suffer a terrible crisis,” Sachs said, adding that continued uncertainty could drive oil prices higher if shortages are not resolved.
He further noted that the current geopolitical tensions, combined with rising crude prices, could contribute to broader economic instability across multiple regions.
Global markets are closely monitoring the situation, as any prolonged blockade in the Strait of Hormuz could tighten supply chains and intensify inflationary pressures worldwide in the coming months.
