WANA (Aug 12) – U.S. President Donald Trump, while repeating Washington’s claim that it controls the Strait of Hormuz, said Iran could “cause trouble” in the strategic waterway but would face a severe response from the United States if it took action. He also said he does not trust Iran and takes threats against him seriously.

 

Speaking to reporters at Joint Base Andrews early Wednesday, Trump once again claimed that the United States has full control over the Strait of Hormuz.

 

“The Iran situation is going well. We have complete control of the Strait of Hormuz. We control it, nobody else does, just us,” Trump said.

 

He went on to say that he does not trust Iran, claiming: “Iran has lied many times, and I’m the last person who would trust them. Iran is not going to become the bully of the Middle East.”

 

At the same time, Trump acknowledged that Iran could create difficulties in the Strait of Hormuz, but claimed that any such move would trigger a severe U.S. response.

 

“They can cause trouble, but they will be hit very hard. We are in a very good position,” he said.

 

Trump Explains Change of Aircraft

Trump was also asked about reports that he had allegedly hidden in a food-delivery truck at an airport and changed aircraft because of concerns over a possible Iranian threat. He attributed the decision to the U.S. Secret Service.

 

“That’s a Secret Service matter. I just follow their instructions,” Trump said.

 

He added that security officials had asked him to travel on another aircraft, which he said offered the same level of security.

 

“They asked me to take another plane, but it was a plane that provides the same level of security. So I did it. I do what they tell me,” Trump said.

 

Trump: I Believe There Was a Threat

The U.S. president also said he believed there had been a threat against him, although he did not provide further details.

 

“I believe there was a threat. I didn’t ask too many questions about it. I get a lot of threats,” Trump said.

 

Trump’s remarks came as concerns over the security of the U.S. president have grown, while the Strait of Hormuz has emerged as a central issue in his statements on Iran. Although Washington has emphasized its claimed control over the strategic waterway, Trump’s remarks also acknowledged that Iran could still affect shipping and maritime security in the area.