US accuses Iran of ceasefire violation in Strait of Hormuz, warns of major strikes as tensions surge.
April 19, 2026: Donald Trump has accused Iran of violating a ceasefire agreement by allegedly opening fire in the Strait of Hormuz, targeting a French vessel and a UK freighter. Calling the incident a “total violation”, Trump said Tehran’s actions had heightened tensions in one of the world’s most critical shipping routes. He also claimed that Iran’s attempt to shut the strait was counterproductive, arguing that a US-led blockade had already disrupted passage and caused significant economic losses to Tehran.
In a strongly worded post, Trump announced that US representatives would travel to Islamabad for negotiations, signalling continued diplomatic efforts alongside rising rhetoric. However, he issued a sharp warning that if Iran refuses what he described as a “fair and reasonable deal”, the United States could launch strikes on key infrastructure, including power plants and bridges. Declaring “no more Mr. Nice Guy”, Trump said decisive action against Iran could be imminent.
Responding to the growing tensions, Masoud Pezeshkian criticised Washington’s stance, questioning its authority to limit Iran’s technological and nuclear rights. Citing remarks reported by Al Jazeera, he argued that the US has no justification to deny Iran its sovereignty, asking, “Who is he to deny a country its rights?” The exchange underscores escalating friction between the two nations, raising concerns of a broader confrontation.