The comment came after Trump reportedly reposted criticism of birthright citizenship in the United States that used the term to refer to India, China and others. A U.S. embassy spokesperson later sought to ease concerns, stressing the strength of U.S.-India relations and noting that Trump had praised India’s leadership.

Jaiswal also addressed maritime security concerns linked to tensions around the Strait of Hormuz. He said Indian nationals were aboard two foreign-owned vessels recently fired upon, but confirmed they were safe and in contact with authorities.

India said 10 Indian vessels had safely exited the Strait of Hormuz in recent weeks, while 14 remained in the Persian Gulf . Jaiswal reiterated New Delhi’s call for “unimpeded access and transit rights for commercial shipping” through the key waterway.

“We have total control of the Strait. And the fact that it's closed, you know, they would have opened it up three days ago,” Trump said.

According to the president, Iranian officials had approached the United States proposing to reopen the vital shipping route.

“They came to us, and they said, we will agree to open the Strait. And all my people were happy. Everybody was happy, except me,” he said.