30 September 2026 (Navroze Bureau) US President Donald Trump has said he does not know whether Iran will “give up yet” but claimed Tehran is performing poorly in its confrontation with Washington.
Trump’s comments came amid continuing tensions over the Strait of Hormuz, where the conflict has severely disrupted energy shipments and maritime traffic.
Trump Comments on Iran
Trump said Iran was doing “very poorly” in its war with the United States and questioned when the Iranian people would rise up.
His remarks reflect Washington’s continuing pressure on Tehran, although Trump acknowledged uncertainty over whether Iran would agree to give up or change course.
Record Oil Flow Through Hormuz
US Energy Secretary Chris Wright said around 17 million barrels of oil passed through the Strait of Hormuz on Monday, describing it as the highest crude flow through the waterway since the conflict sharply reduced shipments.
The figure comes amid major disruption to one of the world’s most important energy corridors.
Why Hormuz Matters
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical route for global oil and gas supplies.
Any sustained disruption can affect international crude prices, shipping costs and energy security in countries that rely heavily on Gulf exports.
Conflict Continues to Disrupt Shipping
The latest developments followed attacks involving oil tankers in the Strait.
Iran has also warned that Gulf energy infrastructure could be vulnerable to retaliation if the United States conducts further attacks on Iranian assets.
US-Iran Military Escalation
The latest escalation includes US strikes on Iranian military targets and Iranian attacks against US positions in the region.
US Central Command has said its operations targeted IRGC facilities, air-defence systems, radar, maritime assets, mine-laying capabilities and communications infrastructure.
Energy Markets Remain on Alert
The conflict has placed energy markets under sustained pressure because investors are closely watching the volume of oil moving through Hormuz.
Even when some shipments continue, uncertainty over future access to the waterway can influence crude prices and shipping insurance costs.
Diplomatic Uncertainty
Trump’s comments suggest that Washington continues to seek significant concessions from Tehran, but the president’s statement that he does not know whether Iran will “give up yet” also highlights the uncertainty surrounding the conflict.
Further military escalation could complicate diplomatic efforts.