'Obliterate' Iran over Strait of Hormuz resistance

Key Points:

• Sen. Lindsey Graham emphasized the importance of diplomacy in ongoing talks with Iran but expressed skepticism about the talks' success, stating that U.S. funds would not significantly change Iran's future.
• Graham revealed that after discussions with President Trump, he believes the administration is prepared to use force to control the Strait of Hormuz if diplomatic efforts fail, including charging fees for passage and expanding regional agreements like the Abraham Accords.
• He warned that if Iran contests U.S. control of the Strait of Hormuz, the U.S. would respond with overwhelming military force, stating, "we will obliterate them."
• The Strait of Hormuz is a vital global oil transit route, and its closure by Iran has disrupted peace efforts and highlighted Iran's strategic leverage in the region amid ongoing tensions with Israel.
• Iran has cited Israeli military actions in Lebanon as justification for closing the Strait, escalating regional instability and complicating U.S. diplomatic efforts.