Tehran Talks US Defeat as Trump Blasts Iran as Very Evil

Iran has called on the United States to accept defeat and refused to lift its blockade of the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said Tehran alone will decide whether to open or close the key maritime route.

Donald Trump, meanwhile, called Iran a "very evil" and warned Americans to expect higher gas prices as the war continues. According to AAA data, prices are up 29% year-over-year, reaching approximately $4.08 per gallon.

The tension is also affecting oil prices. According to Kpler, only two vessels passed through the Strait of Hormuz on Friday, and no oil tankers were recorded.

Before the war, more than 130 ships passed through the strait daily. A diplomatic breakthrough does not appear to be in sight. Iran, meanwhile, is feeling the economic consequences of the conflict, with President Masoud Pezeshkian attributing high inflation to the US blockade and sanctions.

(Reuters, MJA)