Trump rips ‘fools’ opposed to Iran deal as Hegseth says blockade may be reimposed

Defense chief warns the US could resume strikes and reimpose its blockade if Iran fails to adhere to the agreement.

By World Israel News Staff

President Donald Trump lashed out Thursday at critics who say his administration has not been tough enough on Iran, as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned that the United States could resume military action and reimpose a blockade if Tehran fails to carry out its commitments under a new agreement.

Trump defended the US-Iran memorandum of understanding in a post on Truth Social, pointing to rising stock prices and falling oil prices as evidence that the agreement had strengthened the US position.

“These fools, who think I haven’t been tough enough on Iran, when the Stock Market Just Hit A RECORD HIGH, and Oil prices are “tumbling” down, are either jealous, bad people, or stupid. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!!!”

The post came as Hegseth told reporters in Brussels that the Trump administration was prepared to restore military pressure if Iran does not comply with the deal.

“The president has pointed out that we will be prepared to recommence if underneath the timeline of these talks, Iran does not do what it says it’s going to do,” Hegseth said after meeting NATO defense ministers.

Hegseth said the US would restart military action and reimpose a blockade if Iran fails to fulfill its obligations under the agreement.

The warning came one day after the United States and Iran signed a 14-point memorandum of understanding aimed at ending hostilities and opening a 60-day negotiating period for a broader agreement.

Under the agreement, the United States is expected to begin lifting its naval blockade, while Iran is expected to restore marine traffic in the Gulf region and allow toll-free passage through the Strait of Hormuz for an initial period.

Some Republican lawmakers have argued that the MoU gives Iran economic relief too early and does not do enough to dismantle its nuclear program, missile capabilities or network of regional proxies.

Some have also objected to provisions involving Lebanon, where Iran and Hezbollah have demanded that Israel halt military activity.