US President Donald Trump has claimed that Iran’s military leadership has been largely eliminated and asserted that Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is “90% gone” as tensions between Washington and Tehran continue to escalate. Trump made the remarks during a media interview, describing recent US and Israeli military operations as having significantly weakened Iran’s military capabilities. However, the claims have not been independently verified.
Trump also announced that the United States would reinstate a blockade targeting Iranian shipping and said vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz would be required to pay for safe passage. The proposal has intensified concerns over maritime security in one of the world’s most strategically important waterways for global energy supplies.
Iran strongly rejected the latest US measures and condemned Washington’s statements, warning that continued military and economic pressure could further destabilize the region. The exchange follows another round of strikes between the two countries over the weekend, raising fears of a broader regional conflict.
The latest developments mark another significant escalation in the ongoing US-Iran confrontation, with diplomatic efforts showing little sign of progress. International observers continue to monitor the situation closely as concerns grow over its potential impact on regional security, international shipping, and global energy markets.