Trump Critiques Iranian Leadership During Press Conference

WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump referred to the Iranian regime’s leadership as “bullshit artists,” claiming they have deceived previous American presidents for almost half a century.

His remarks came at his third press conference since taking office in 2026, where a CNN reporter asked whether reopening the Strait of Hormuz was a primary goal in negotiations to conclude the ongoing conflict.

The correspondent probed, “Are you considering a deal that doesn’t prioritize reopening the Strait of Hormuz? Or is that your main focus right now?” after Trump labeled certain news outlets as “fake news.”

Trump responded, “I would say that’s a significant priority since it’s somewhat unique… Sure, we can launch attacks. We could eliminate their capabilities, but really, it could take just one terrorist with a truck loaded with explosives to disrupt the Strait. Then, suddenly, billion-dollar shipping companies are left worried about more than just mines.” He emphasized that mines could be deployed underwater, unlike in other situations.

He asserted that the U.S. has “effectively destroyed” Iran’s navy and air force and mentioned other ships could be employed for laying mines. However, he expressed doubt about Iran’s current capabilities, even humorously suggesting that the Iranian regime excels at deception.

“They may not have the means to place mines anymore, but they could potentially be using other vessels,” he stated. “Honestly, I’m uncertain if they even possess mines. There are claims they might have eight, but I’m just not sure. They’re such convincing deceivers that I think they probably have none.”

Trump continued, “They’ve been misleading other presidents for 47 years, and they’re failing their duties. People are suffering in that country, while they are too. Honestly, I think this has been going on long enough.” He asserted that Iran currently finds itself in a significantly weak position, lacking a navy, air force, anti-aircraft systems, radar, and modern communications.

He observed that the biggest hurdle in negotiations is Iran’s inadequate communication systems. “Their communication methods seem stuck in the past; we’re using the same basic methods as we did two millennia ago—kids passing messages back and forth,” he remarked to reporters.

“Ultimately, my goal is just to ensure a safe world,” he concluded.