Graham vows 'overwhelming' force if Iran ignores Hormuz ultimatum: 'Trump means what he says'

WASHINGTON, DC: Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) said on Saturday, April 4, that the United States is prepared to use “overwhelming military force” if Iran does not comply with President Donald Trump’s demand to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

Speaking after what he described as a direct conversation with Trump earlier in the day, Graham indicated that a large-scale military response remains under consideration if diplomatic efforts fail.

Graham’s remarks come at a pivotal stage in 'Operation Epic Fury', now in its fifth week, as US-led strikes continue across Iranian military and infrastructure targets.

“I totally support his ultimatum to the Iranian regime to open up the Strait of Hormuz and to do a peace deal,” Graham said in a public statement.

'Epic Fury' leaves regime 'severely crippled'

Graham said recent US and allied strikes have significantly impacted Iran’s military capabilities, including air defenses, naval assets, and key facilities.

He described the campaign as having weakened the country’s operational capacity over the past month.

US officials previously stated that the objective of the operation was to limit Iran’s ability to project force and interfere with regional stability. While Graham characterized the situation as a turning point, the Pentagon has not issued a definitive assessment confirming the extent of damage.

He added that while diplomatic options remain open, the current military posture allows for further escalation if required.

Trump 'means what he says' on force

Graham said he believes Trump is prepared to follow through on his warning of additional force if Iran does not meet US demands.

“If it’s not clear to Iran and others by now that President Trump means what he says, then I don’t know when it will ever be,” he stated.

The comments reflect the administration’s broader stance that reopening the Strait and reaching a deal are immediate priorities. US officials have consistently linked diplomatic outcomes with military positioning in the region.

The White House has not released additional details about any potential escalation but has maintained that all options remain on the table.

Strait of Hormuz remains the red line

The Strait of Hormuz continues to be central to the standoff. The waterway, which handles a significant portion of global oil shipments, has seen disruptions since the conflict escalated.

Graham reiterated that ensuring open passage through the Strait is a key US objective. Previous statements from the administration have described the situation as a threat to global energy security.

US naval assets remain deployed in and around the region, though officials have not confirmed any specific operational timelines tied to Graham’s remarks.