‘Great damage’ was done to Iranian attackers, Trump sayspublished at 00:04 BST 8 May
00:04 BST 8 May
Image source, AFP via Getty ImagesImage caption,
A billboard depicting the Strait of Hormuz with a caption in Persian reading “Forever in Iran’s Hand”
We have now heard directly from the president, who says three US naval destroyers came under attack in Iran, but were not damaged.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump says that “great damage” was done to the Iranian attackers and that numerous small boats were completely destroyed..
“These boats went to the bottom of the Sea, quickly and efficiently. Missiles were shot at our Destroyers, and were easily knocked down. Likewise, drones came, and were incinerated while in the air,” he writes.
“They dropped ever so beautifully down to the Ocean, very much like a butterfly dropping to its grave! A normal Country would have allowed these Destroyers to pass, but Iran is not a normal Country. They are led by LUNATICS,” he adds.
Trump reiterates his stance on Iran’s nuclear capabilities, saying that if Tehran had a chance to use a nuclear weapon “they would do it, without question”.
“[T]hey’ll never have that opportunity and, just like we knocked them out again today, we’ll knock them out a lot harder, and a lot more violently, in the future, if they don’t get their Deal signed, FAST!”
He also mentions that the US blockade on Iran is still in effect, saying that the three naval destroyers that came under attack will rejoin this “Wall of Steel”.
On Tuesday, the US paused an operation to guide stranded vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, citing “great progress” that Trump said had been made toward a deal with Iran.
No details about the proposed deal have been shared, but on Wednesday, Iran’s foreign ministry said the latest US proposal was being considered.