19/04/2026
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19/04/2026
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US President Donald Trump speaks with reporters outside the Oval Office of the White House on April 13, in Washington. (AP)
WASHINGTON, Apr 19: Donald Trump has accused Iran of violating a ceasefire agreement by opening fire in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, warning of severe military consequences if Tehran fails to accept a U.S. proposal.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump claimed Iranian forces fired shots targeting a French vessel and a British freighter, calling the incident “a total violation” of the ceasefire. He added that the United States is pushing forward with diplomatic efforts despite the escalation.
“My Representatives are going to Islamabad — they will be there tomorrow evening for negotiations,” Trump said, indicating that U.S. envoys are set to hold talks with Iranian officials in Pakistan.
The U.S. president described Washington’s offer as “a very fair and reasonable deal” and urged Tehran to accept it. However, his remarks took a sharp turn as he issued a stark warning of potential military action.
“If they don’t, the United States is going to knock out every single power plant and every single bridge in Iran,” Trump said, adding: “No more Mr. Nice Guy.”
Trump also claimed that Iran’s recent move to declare the closure of the Strait was redundant, arguing that a U.S.-led blockade had already effectively shut down the vital shipping route. He asserted that the disruption was costing Iran hundreds of millions of dollars daily while diverting global shipping toward U.S. energy hubs.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical maritime corridors, through which a significant share of global oil supplies passes. Any disruption to traffic in the area has immediate implications for international energy markets and regional stability.
The latest exchange underscores rising tensions despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, with upcoming talks in Islamabad now seen as a crucial test of whether both sides can step back from further escalation.