US President Donald Trump has ruled out using nuclear weapons against Iran, saying there is no reason for such an attack.
Trump made the remarks after a journalist asked whether Washington could use nuclear weapons during the ongoing conflict.
He dismissed the question as “stupid” and argued that Iran had already been completely defeated.
“Iran has been completely defeated, why should I use nuclear weapons?” Trump said.
His comments come as Washington and Tehran remain locked in renewed military exchanges and tensions over the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump Claims Strait Traffic Has Improved
Trump also said conditions in the Strait of Hormuz had improved significantly.
According to the US president, around 30 ships are passing through the strategic waterway each night.
However, claims about shipping traffic and safe commercial passage remain disputed.
Earlier reports suggested that between 20 and 30 tankers had crossed the strait on some nights using a US-protected route.
Trump also described Iran as a “failed state” and claimed its inflation rate had reached 350 percent.
He said Iran lacked sufficient funds to pay its soldiers, but warned that financial problems would not stop further US military action.
US Considers Limited Strikes
Meanwhile, Trump is considering limited and intermittent strikes against Iran, according to Axios.
The reported plan aims to prevent Tehran from rebuilding military capabilities that could threaten vessels crossing the Strait of Hormuz.
US Central Command has reportedly developed plans targeting Iranian facilities linked to threats against shipping.
The proposed strikes could target radar and missile systems that Iran might use to attack commercial vessels.
US officials remain concerned that rebuilding these capabilities could allow Tehran to disrupt navigation through the strategically important waterway.
Trump said Washington would continue assessing the situation before deciding its next steps.
