US President Donald Trump has commended Iran for releasing an American citizen who had been detained for over 18 months, referring to it as a positive action. This acknowledgment comes amid escalating tensions between the two nations.
The conflict between the US and Iran has been sporadic since February 28, triggered by joint strikes conducted by the US and Israel on key Iranian targets. In response, Iran launched retaliatory strikes and closed the vital Strait of Hormuz.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump expressed gratitude for Iran’s decision to allow the wrongfully detained American citizen to leave the country. The individual is now safely out of Iran and in good health, according to Trump.
Despite this goodwill gesture, the US carried out strikes on Iran on Wednesday. The US Central Command reported targeting Iranian command centers, air defense sites, and missile capabilities to diminish Iran’s ability to threaten commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.
The military action was in accordance with the Commander in Chief’s orders to hold Iran accountable. Although a Memorandum of Understanding was signed a month ago to end hostilities within 60 days, lasting peace and the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz remain elusive.
Recently, Iran announced its withdrawal from the MoU due to perceived violations by the US. Iran emphasized its sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz, including taking control of Oman’s share of the waterway.
During a NATO summit in Türkiye, President Trump declared the ceasefire over, expressing his unwillingness to engage further with Iran. He described them as “scum” in a statement to reporters.