WASHINGTON — On Wednesday, President Trump asserted that Iran was under severe economic strain, likening its situation to “choking like a stuffed pig,” due to the United States’ blockade of the nation’s ports. He emphasized that these sanctions would persist until Iran relinquishes its nuclear ambitions.

In a phone interview with Axios, Trump stated, “The blockade is proving to be more effective than military action. They are struggling significantly, and things will only deteriorate for them,” highlighting the impact of the U.S. strategy.

Trump further elaborated, “They are eager to negotiate because they want the blockade lifted. However, I am unwilling to do so as long as they continue pursuing nuclear weapons.”

His remarks came after a second round of peace negotiations in Pakistan fell through. The U.S. coldly received Tehran’s two-phase proposal, which suggested reopening the Strait of Hormuz before addressing nuclear concerns.