What They’re Saying About Operation Epic Fury—April 26, 2026
U.S.
President Donald Trump | Press Interview
“When you have . . . vast amounts of oil pouring through your system, if for any reason that line is closed because you can’t continue to put it into containers or ships, which has happened to them [the Iranian regime] . . . what happens is that line explodes from within . . . And they say they only have about three days left before that happens. And when that explodes . . . you can never rebuilt it the way it was.”
President Donald Trump | Press Interview
“I think the the big advantage is that we’ve taken out their [the Iranian regime’s] navy in its entirety. We’ve taken out their air force . . . they’re really in bad shape. And, of course, we’ve done the blockade, and the blockade’s been unbelievably effective.”
“Yesterday, M/V Sevan was among 19 ‘shadow fleet’ vessels sanctioned by the U.S. Department of Treasury for activities related to transporting billions of dollars worth of Iranian energy, oil and gas products, including propane and butane, to foreign markets. Earlier today, Sevan was intercepted in the Arabian Sea by a U.S. Navy helicopter from guided-missile destroyer USS Pinckney (DDG 91), and the merchant vessel is currently complying with U.S. military direction to turn back to Iran under escort. U.S. forces continue to enforce U.S. sanctions and fully implement the blockade against ships entering or departing Iranian ports. 37 vessels have been redirected since the start of the blockade.”
“President Trump’s decision to cancel the Witkoff-Kushner visit to Pakistan to pursue further negotiations with Iran at this time was very wise. @POTUS has gone the extra mile when it comes to trying to find a diplomatic solution by extending the ceasefire, and the response from Iran has been more assault on international shipping and more provocation. In my view, the top priority of the United States and the world is to establish firm control over the Strait of Hormuz, ensuring freedom of navigation under international law. When it comes to achieving that goal, US military engagement may be required in the short term. It is more than worth the risk associated with regaining freedom of navigation of the strait.”
IRAN
Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf | X
“They brag about the cards. Let’s see:
“Supply Cards= Demand Cards
“SOH (partly played)+BEM(unplayed)+Pipelines(unplayed)= Inv Release (played)+Demand Destruction (partly played)+⏳More Price Adj (to come)
“Add summer vacation to the right unless they want to cancel it for the US!”
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi | X
“Very fruitful visit to Pakistan, whose good offices and brotherly efforts to bring back peace to our region we very much value. Shared Iran’s position concerning workable framework to permanently end the war on Iran. Have yet to see if the U.S. is truly serious about diplomacy.”
Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei | X
“We are in Muscat for an official visit to the Sultanate of Oman—FM Araghchi’s first to the region following the recent U.S.-Israeli aggression, which has impacted the broader region. Iran continues to place great importance on its relations with Persian Gulf states and remains committed to strengthening mutual trust and constructive cooperation. The Oman–Iran relationship stands as a testament to Iran’s genuine pursuance of respectful and mutually beneficial relations with its neighbors in the South.”
GULF STATES
Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi | X
“Good discussion on the Strait of Hormuz with Iran’s Foreign Minister Dr. Araghchi. As litoral states, we recognize our shared responsibility to the international community and the urgent humanitarian need to free the seafarers held for far too long. Much diplomacy is required and practical solutions to ensure lasting freedom of navigation.”
“HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani received Sunday a phone call from HE Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran Dr. Abbas Araghchi. The call discussed efforts to achieve peace and enhance security and stability in the region. HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs expressed the need for all parties to engage with the ongoing mediation efforts, which would open the way for addressing the root causes of the crisis through peaceful means and dialogue, leading to a sustainable agreement and preventing renewed escalation. His Excellency also stressed the need to open sea lanes, ensure freedom of navigation, and not use them as a bargaining chip or pressure tactic. In this context, he emphasized the negative effects of this on the countries of the region and the world’s energy and food supplies, as well as its repercussions on international peace and security.”
PAKISTAN
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif | X
“Had a warm and constructive telephone exchange this evening with my brother, President Masoud Pezeshkian, on the evolving regional situation. I appreciated Iran’s continued engagement, including the high-level delegation to Islamabad led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, whom I had the pleasure of meeting earlier today. I reaffirmed that, with the support of friends and partners, Pakistan remains committed to serve as an honest and sincere facilitator - working tirelessly to advance durable peace and lasting stability in the region.”
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