President Donald Trump has stated that the United States has collected approximately $13 billion in revenues from Venezuela, asserting that a similar outcome awaits Iran if current tensions escalate.
Speaking aboard Air Force One, the president framed the Venezuelan precedent as a warning to Tehran regarding the financial consequences of continued confrontation.
The remarks come as diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions in the Strait of Hormuz remain stalled.
Trump’s comments signal a hardening of the US position, suggesting that economic isolation and asset seizure remain viable tools in the broader strategy against Iran.
This adds a significant financial dimension to the existing military and shipping risks in the region.
Markets are likely to interpret the comments as a signal that the US is prepared to enforce sanctions more aggressively, potentially impacting global oil supply expectations.