Trump Claims Iranians Survive Solely to Negotiate Amid Tensions

Middle Eastern outlets focus on the danger to Gulf shipping and energy exports from Trump’s blockade order and threats against Iranian ships. They highlight that regional states depend on safe passage through Hormuz and are wary of being caught between US pressure and Iranian retaliation. Many expect Iran to answer Trump’s threats with its own shows of force or harassment at sea, raising fears that Gulf economies and civilian shipping could be hit first if fighting resumes.

• •Trump has warned that Iranian ships nearing the US blockade line will be eliminated.
• •Gulf media report that NATO allies have refused to join the Hormuz blockade, leaving the US largely alone.
• •Iran’s navy chief has publicly mocked Trump’s blockade threat as ridiculous and challenged its credibility.
• •Regional commentators warn that any clash in Hormuz could disrupt oil and gas exports from Gulf producers.
• •Middle Eastern coverage notes that local governments are trying to keep trade flowing while avoiding direct alignment with Trump’s plan.