Donald Trump's description of the ongoing naval blockade of Iranian ports as a 'very friendly blockade' has become a viral moment of ridicule on social media, after the US President used the phrase during a Fox News interview on 4 May.
He was asked about his remarks after sending Congress a letter on 1 May stating that hostilities with Iran had been 'terminated,' despite blockades remaining in place at Iranian ports. Trump explained that it is a 'very friendly blockade.' What was intended as a defence of his administration's foreign policy has instead become a viral moment of ridicule on social media, with viewers online not convinced by his explanation.
Following the controversial exchange regarding the Middle East, Fox News viewers took to digital forums to express their disapproval through pointed, two-word insults. The reaction was swift and largely focused on the apparent disconnect between Trump's statements and established international norms.
Several users branded the Republican leader an 'absolute moron' for his assessment of the situation. Others labelled him 'manipulative liar' and 'lying idiot.'
Anaval blockadeis a forced military action that restricts a nation's sovereignty and trade. To suggest such an operation could be 'friendly' was seen by many as a fundamental misunderstanding of the gravity of military intervention.
Critics pointed out that anaval blockadeis a forced military action that effectively restricts a nation's sovereignty and trade. To suggest such an operation could be 'friendly' was seen by many as a fundamental misunderstanding of the gravity of military intervention.
Several users reacted to the phrase 'friendly blockade' with sarcasm. One even suggested a 'friendly blockade on Trump.' Another said, 'It's a very friendly experience every time I get gas,' adding that Trump is the 'worst president ever.'
So f**king stupid…an absolute moron.pic.twitter.com/RvuEDXzHAp
The controversy originated during an interview on Fox News where Trump was challenged on his official communications with the legislature. The interviewer specifically questioned a letter sent to Congress in which Trump claimed that hostilities in Iran had been 'terminated.' The journalist countered this by asking, 'How can you say that given that the naval blockade is still in place?'
Trump's response has since become the focal point of the ongoing debate.
Source: International Business Times UK
