Catsimatidis: Iran ‘Decimated,’ Trump to Secure Strait of Hormuz

Catsimatidis Delivers Hardline Message on Iran, Strait of Hormuz

Billionaire businessman and Red Apple Group Chairman John Catsimatidis expressed a strong stance on Iran’s actions in the Strait of Hormuz, asserting that the country has been “decimated” and is paying a heavy price for its decades of actions. Speaking on a recent broadcast, Catsimatidis addressed the escalating tensions in the critical global shipping lane, emphasizing the need for decisive action to ensure the free flow of oil and goods.

Iran’s Threat to Strait of Hormuz and Market Impact

The price of Brent crude oil hovered below $100, influenced by new rhetoric from Iran’s leadership regarding the Strait of Hormuz. Iran’s leader suggested the vital waterway must remain closed, a move that could disrupt global shipping and prolong fears of increased energy costs. Analysts at Piper Sandler noted that the movement of at least one Indian oil tanker out of the Strait might have contributed to a slight dip in prices on the morning of the broadcast.

Catsimatidis highlighted the precarious situation for maritime traffic, with tankers reportedly being attacked in the Strait. He questioned how safety could be ensured, to which he responded with confidence in swift resolution, stating, “Great safety and it’ll be very, very quickly and we’ve decimated that country.” He elaborated on the consequences Iran faces, “They’re paying a big price now for 47 years of fillings. They’ve killed and you have relatives, we have relatives but they’ve done and they’re paying for it.”

U.S. Policy and Energy Price Stability

The broadcast also touched upon U.S. policy under the Biden administration, including a 30-day labor along the purchase of 124 million barrels of Russian oil, which was seen as further stabilizing prices. Catsimatidis contrasted this with the previous Trump administration, noting that under Biden, oil prices were at $90 for four years, whereas under Trump, it was a one-month occurrence. “Under President Trump it’s one month. What’s the biggest deal right now?” he questioned, suggesting the current situation is not as dire as it might seem.

Regarding the potential impact on food prices, Catsimatidis was dismissive of immediate concerns. “No real affect. I mean, don’t forget we had under President Biden’s administration, we had $90 oil for four years,” he stated. He reiterated that the Strait of Hormuz must be opened, sharing concerns from Greek shipowners who have cargo ships stuck. These owners, despite having insurance, are hesitant to navigate the Strait due to fears for their crews’ safety.

“He says to me, I spoke to a guinoned Nick Saccos and said I worry about my people. I don’t want my people hurt. He’s got 30 people on each one of the six ships.”

— John Catsimatidis on the concerns of a Greek shipowner

Trump’s Approach to Global Diplomacy and Trade

Catsimatidis expressed strong support for former President Donald Trump’s approach to foreign policy and trade negotiations. He believes Trump’s no-nonsense style is precisely what is needed to resolve the issues in the Strait of Hormuz. “What President Trump has to do is, I guess, we know President Trump very well, both of us, he takes no prisoners and he’s going to straighten out that Strait of Hormuz one way or another,” Catsimatidis asserted.

Beyond the immediate geopolitical flashpoints, Catsimatidis pointed to Trump’s diplomatic efforts with China and Russia as key to achieving “world peace.” He argued that having a dialogue with these global powers, even while China criticized Iran’s actions, signifies a stronger U.S. position. “President Trump has achieved world peace by having a dialogue with China and Russia,” he stated, suggesting that even skirmishes are a worst-case scenario.

China’s Concerns and Global Agriculture

The importance of the Strait of Hormuz extends beyond oil, as China relies on it not only for energy but also for critical supplies like fertilizers, which are essential for global agriculture. The broadcast noted anxiety on Capitol Hill not just over gas prices but also the cost of fertilizer. Despite recent reports showing a slight increase in food prices, Catsimatidis assured that consumers shouldn’t expect immediate price hikes at Red Apple Group unless the situation persists beyond 60 days.

New York City Fiscal Challenges and Real Estate Concerns

The conversation also shifted to domestic issues, specifically the fiscal challenges facing New York City. Catsimatidis critiqued the proposals from figures like Zohran Mamdani, who is reportedly facing scrutiny over a $5.5 million budget deficit projection. Mamdani’s proposed tax on new homes starting at $500,000 was questioned, with Catsimatidis arguing that such a threshold does not constitute a “mansion” in New York City, likening it to a studio apartment. He raised concerns about potential capital flight and the risk to the city’s real estate market.

Catsimatidis advocated for a more business-oriented approach to city management, suggesting a 3% cut across all departments to address an $11 billion shortfall in a $127 billion budget. He drew a parallel to Trump’s business acumen, stating, “President Trump is a businessman. He’s more of a businessman and he’s a president too, but you have to be a businessman to run a country or city.”

Tariffs and National Security Under Trump

The discussion revisited former President Trump’s use of tariffs as a tool for national security and to ensure fair trade practices. Citing Section 301, which allows the Trade Representative to investigate unfair trade practices, Catsimatidis explained that tariffs can be imposed on countries engaging in practices like forced labor, industrial excess capacity, or discriminating against U.S. companies. He noted that the process is detailed and allows for the implementation of durable tariffs under current law, with investigations typically taking up to 12 months. July 24th was identified as a potential date to watch for further tariff actions.

Catsimatidis concluded by urging support for Trump’s agenda, stating, “President Trump is trying to do his job and everybody is trying to stop him from doing his job. What did President Trump yawed to say? You’re full of crap. Let the man do his job and leave America Great Again.”

Source: 'DECIMATED THAT COUNTRY': Catsimatidis delivers hardline message on Iran (YouTube)