Trump Downplays Iran Flare Up In Strait Of Hormuz: 'I Call It a Skirmish'

President Donald Trump downplayed the flare up at the Strait of Hormuz, saying it does not mean Tehran has broken the ceasefire.

Speaking to reporters during the signing of a proclamation related to youth fitness, Trump said incidents amounted to a "skirmish."

"I call it a skirmish because Iran has no chance. They never did. They know it," Trump said. Asked about what would constitute a perceived breach of the ceasefire, he said: "You'll find out because I'll let you know."

The latest tensions involve the U.S.'s moves to guarantee passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Top shipping company Maersk said on Tuesday that one of its vessels managed to sail through the key waterway, challenging Iran's blockade.

The company said the ship crossed on Monday after being stranded at sea since the war began on February 28. All crew members were unharmed.

The Maritime Information Center, led by the U.S., had advised ships to cross through Omani waters, saying it had set up an "enhanced security area" and managed to create a path free of sea mines.

Trump threatened Tehran on Monday over the matter, saying it would be "blown off the face of the Earth" if its forces seek to prevent ships from crossing the key waterway.

He went on to say that the U.S. military buildup in the region continues to grow. "We have more weapons and ammunition at a much higher grade than we had before."

"We have the best equipment. We have stuff all over the world. We have these bases all over the world. They're all stocked up with equipment. We can use all of that stuff, and we will, if we need it."

The threat comes after the commander of the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) Brad Cooper, said U.S. forces sunk six Iranian small boats that were targeting civilian vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. Trump said on Tuesday the figure had climbed to eight. "They're all gone. And they're fast, but they're not fast like a missile. A missile is slightly faster," Trump said.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said in a social media post on Monday that the developments "make clear that there's no military solution to a political crisis."

"As talks are making progress with Pakistan's gracious effort, the U.S. should be wary of being dragged back into quagmire by ill-wishers. So should the UAE. Project Freedom is Project Deadlock," he added.

Originally published on IBTimes