Foreign policy expert Jürgen Hardt (CDU) views the suggestion of a US naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz primarily as a bargaining tactic from the US President. Speaking to the “Rheinische Post” on Monday, Hardt stated, “President Trump cannot afford blocked trade routes. This will also lead to rising prices within the United States and weaken him politically” according to the CDU’s foreign policy spokesperson. Hardt elaborated that, “Both sides are attempting to improve their negotiation positions. I perceive Trump’s comments regarding a potential US blockade more as a negotiating tactic”. The CDU politician added that they have learned not to take every single word from him as a final commitment.