TEHRAN – Tensions between Iran and the US are taking bitter turn as senior Iranian military officials step up their criticism of US President Donald Trump while Washington continues to tighten economic pressure on Tehran.
Senior military adviser and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) General Mohammad Reza Naqdi openly questioned Trump’s credibility, saying he would trust the words of an ordinary taxi driver more than the US president’s public statements.
Naqdi accused Trump of lacking clear long-term strategy and argued that his statements frequently change. He suggested that Washington’s shifting messages have weakened US credibility and that Trump does not always appear to consider the consequences of his words before making them.
His comments come at a time when relations between Tehran and Washington remain deeply strained, with diplomacy stalled and military tensions continuing to cast a shadow over the region.
One of the biggest flashpoints is Strait of Hormuz, where any escalation could have consequences far beyond Iran and the United States. Iranian officials have continued to stress the importance of strengthening the country’s military capabilities in response to what they describe as threats from foreign powers.
IRGC Commander-in-Chief Ahmad Vahidi has also called for Iran to accelerate the development of its military strength, saying the country needs to improve both its offensive and defensive capabilities to confront potential threats.
Trump made clear that Washington’s economic pressure campaign does not mean military action is off the table. Speaking to reporters in Maryland, Trump said the intensification of economic pressure on Iran should not be interpreted as a decision against possible military intervention.
POTUS also claimed that Iran was facing severe economic difficulties and alleged that Tehran was struggling to pay members of its military and police forces. He further added that the United States has complete control over the Strait of Hormuz, adding another provocative element to an already tense confrontation.
Iran rejects US pressures as Trump says Tehran not ready for ‘right’ deal
