Trump Says Strait of Hormuz Remains Open; Netanyahu Says US Ready to Use Force if Iran Breaks Commitments

WASHINGTON, July 12: U.S. President Donald Trump said Sunday that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to commercial shipping, amid continued tensions in the Gulf and concerns over maritime security.

Speaking in an interview with NBC News, Trump said the strategic waterway continues to operate normally for commercial traffic.

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Trump remains committed to pursuing a negotiated agreement with Iran over its nuclear program but is prepared to use military force if Tehran fails to honor its commitments.

"I think President Trump wants to exhaust the possibility of achieving an agreement, especially on the nuclear issue, through negotiations," Netanyahu told NBC News. "But he is obviously not shy of using force when the Iranians break every commitment they make."

Netanyahu also paid tribute to late U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, describing him as a steadfast supporter of Israel and a vocal advocate for confronting Iran's nuclear ambitions.

According to Netanyahu, Graham had urged decisive action against Tehran's nuclear program, warning that Iran's capabilities should be dismantled before they could pose a greater threat to Israel.

The remarks come as regional tensions remain elevated over Iran's nuclear activities and security concerns surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route for oil and gas exports.