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Trump Demands Iran Pay Damages, Says US Controls Strait of Hormuz

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US President Donald Trump said Monday Iran should pay damages for past attacks and deaths, while reiterating the US Navy maintains 100% control of the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump made the remarks while signing an executive order at the White House.

"We're going to ask for money for the damage they've done over a 50-year period...," Trump said, citing past attacks and victims, including the USS Cole and people who were hurt, wounded or killed.

He said the US could also seek compensation for protesters killed in Iran, adding that families should receive damages for the deaths of their relatives. "... maybe damages for the 52,000 protesters over the last four months that were killed in Iran," Trump said.

Trump said the US Navy now controls the Strait of Hormuz and allows selected vessels to pass through the waterway, while blocking ships from entering Iran.

"The only one that has control of the Strait of Hormuz right now is the United States Navy. We have a blockade that's been infallible," Trump said, describing the US blockade as "a steel wall."

Trump said US forces have swept mines from the Strait of Hormuz, "... we've mine swept the entire Strait, ... we control the Strait 100%," he said.

Asked whether a massive escalation against Iran remained on the table, Trump said the US retains the ability to take such action. "We have that... ability if we want to do that... you'll find out," he said.

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