The Iran Embassy in South Africa recently criticized U.S. President Donald Trump in response to a widely circulated video clip. This clip purportedly included a communication from the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), where a voice used the term “idiot.” The embassy’s reaction was pointed, calling Trump the “idiot” in question.
Iran Embassy’s Response to Viral IRGC Audio
The embassy’s statement was made in a post on social media platform X. They stated, “You idiot, he meant your Idiot President, Trump. Just google ‘idiot’—you’ll understand who it is.” This remark followed claims that the remark in the video was directed at Iran’s foreign minister, which the embassy strongly rejected.
Contents of the Viral Communication
The IRGC’s radio communication, allegedly originating from the navy, warned ships navigating through the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The message stated:
- “This is Iranian Sepah Navy calling on channel 16.”
- “Strait of Hormuz is still closed; we will open it by the order of our Imam Khamenei, not by the tweets of some idiot.”
- “All vessels connected with our enemies will be targeted if they attempt to pass through the Strait of Hormuz.”
Control Over the Strait of Hormuz
Recent statements from Iran’s military command indicated that they had reestablished strict control over the Strait of Hormuz. This decision followed a brief reopening of the shipping route for commercial vessels the day prior. The Iranian authorities made it clear that transit would stay blocked as long as the U.S. continued its blockade on Iranian ports.
Furthermore, the IRGC announced that the closure now extended to a corridor previously designated as safe. A late-night warning indicated that any vessels attempting to violate this closure would face targeting.
Diplomatic Efforts Amid escalating Tensions
Despite rising tensions, there are signs of ongoing diplomatic efforts. Pakistani officials reported that negotiations between the U.S. and Iran are in progress, with a deadline for ceasefire approaching on April 22. The Supreme National Security Council of Iran stated that proposals were passed during a recent visit by Pakistan’s army chief, though specific details were not revealed.
The council emphasized that for further negotiations, the U.S. must drop “excessive demands.” It also reiterated Iran’s intention to maintain full control over traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, which includes issuing transit certificates and collecting tolls, until a comprehensive peace is reached in the region.
