US President Donald Trump on Friday claimed that Iran has agreed to permanently keep the Strait of Hormuz open, a critical global oil shipping route, saying it would no longer be used as “a weapon against the world.”
In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, “Iran has agreed to never close the Strait of Hormuz again. It will no longer be used as a weapon against the World.”
He further said that the US would maintain pressure on Tehran until a broader agreement is finalised. “The US Navy’s blockade will remain in full force until such time as our transaction with Iran is 100% complete,” Trump stated in another post.
Iran says Strait of Hormuz remains open during ceasefire
Iran, however, presented a slightly different position. Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said that the Strait of Hormuz remains open for commercial shipping during the ongoing ceasefire period.
In a post on X, Araghchi wrote, “In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire.”
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important oil transit routes, and any disruption there can have immediate global economic consequences.
Trump signals progress on Iran deal
Trump also suggested that negotiations with Iran were advancing, calling the situation “swimmingly” and indicating that a deal could be reached soon.
“We’re going to see what happens, but I think we’re very close to making a deal with Iran,” he told reporters, adding that Iran had indicated willingness to avoid nuclear weapons development for over two decades.
He also hinted that a new round of US-Iran talks could take place over the weekend.
Ceasefire in Lebanon linked to broader diplomacy
The latest developments come alongside a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, which Trump announced earlier this week. The truce has been described by officials as part of wider diplomatic efforts to reduce regional tensions.
Celebrations were reported in parts of Beirut following the ceasefire announcement, though violations were later claimed by Lebanese authorities.
Israel has said its forces remain active in southern Lebanon, citing ongoing security concerns related to Hezbollah.
Trump highlights military pressure and regional shifts
Trump claimed that US military pressure has significantly weakened Iran’s capabilities. He said Iran’s naval strength had been severely reduced, stating, “They have no Navy left.”
He also reiterated that US actions, including naval operations, would continue until a final agreement is reached.
