Kathmandu— Former US President Donald Trump stated on Monday that Iran should be held financially responsible for damage caused over the past 50 years, while simultaneously claiming the United States Navy has complete control over the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump detailed a reciprocal approach to reparations requests from Tehran, asserting Washington would also seek compensation for alleged Iranian actions and casualties linked to the country’s leadership. He outlined these demands as future conditions for any diplomatic negotiations with Iran.

Reciprocal Reparations Demands

Trump indicated that Iran had previously requested reparations and financial compensation for damage caused by US actions, a proposition he found agreeable in principle. “They asked for reparations, they asked for money for the damage that we've done,” Trump said. “And I said, that’s a good idea. Well, we're to ask for money for the damage they've done over a 50-year period.” He stated he intends to pursue financial restitution from Iran for casualties and injuries resulting from attacks linked to Tehran.

Control Of The Strait Of Hormuz

The former president asserted that the US Navy maintains complete control of the Strait of Hormuz, describing it as an “infallible” blockade. “The only one that has control of the Strait of Hormuz right now is the United States Navy,” Trump stated. He claimed the US allows passage to vessels it approves and prevents ships from entering Iran, characterizing the waterway’s security as a ‘steel wall.’

Specific Grievances And Allegations

Trump cited several specific incidents for which he seeks compensation, including the 2000 USS Cole bombing. He also referenced Qassem Soleimani, the former Iranian military commander killed in a US drone strike in 2020, alleging Tehran’s involvement in conflicts resulting in thousands of deaths. Furthermore, Trump extended his demand to include compensation for families of protesters allegedly killed by the Iranian regime over the last five decades and claimed 52,000 people had lost their lives in the past five months.

Negotiating Stance

Trump confirmed he has directed American negotiators to incorporate these demands into all future diplomatic talks with Iran. This counter-demand follows Tehran linking war reparation claims to conditions for a potential reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, alongside requests for the lifting of US sanctions and an end to naval blockades.

The former president’s statements signal a firm stance toward Iran as negotiations remain stalled, with both sides seeking financial compensation for perceived damages.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.