Trump expects Iran back at negotiating table despite breakdown

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (local time) predicted that Iran would return to the negotiating table despite the collapse of the first round of peace talks between the US and Iran. In a phone interview with Fox News, President Trump said, "They (Iran) have not left the negotiating table and I expect them to come back and give us everything we want," highlighting as the basis for this outlook Iran's lack of 'cards' and the strength of the US military. Trump emphasized the destruction of Iran's military capabilities, stating that the country could be returned to the 'Stone Age.' He implied that Iran's energy facilities, power plants, desalination plants, bridges, power grids, and missile manufacturing facilities could become potential targets.

Meanwhile, President Trump on Tuesday (local time) ordered the US Navy to blockade the Strait of Hormuz, and the US is set to implement measures controlling vessel traffic to all Iranian ports and surrounding coastal areas in the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Oman starting on Wednesday (11 PM KST on the 13th). Amidst this situation, international oil prices have surpassed $100 per barrel. Brent crude futures recorded $103.44 per barrel on Wednesday morning.

In relation to Iran, President Trump criticized NATO and reiterated his dissatisfaction with South Korea and Japan, countries with high oil import dependency, for being uncooperative in responding to US requests for security support.