Trump links Strait of Hormuz reopening to Iran-US deal
Proposed agreement would lift oil sanctions and restore navigation through critical waterway, according to Iran state media reports of Trump’s comments.
US President Donald Trump stated on Thursday that the Strait of Hormuz would be reopened immediately upon the signing of a proposed agreement with Iran, which would also result in the lifting of oil sanctions, according to Iran state media. The announcement marks a significant de-escalation on the 105th day of conflict between the two nations, reversing earlier threats by the US to target critical Iranian oil infrastructure.
Trump described the potential outcome as a "great settlement" that remains subject to the finalisation of documents. The President indicated that a deal could be signed as soon as the weekend, signalling a rapid shift from military posturing to diplomatic resolution. This development follows the cancellation of planned US military strikes on Iran, including threats to attack Kharg Island and other key oil facilities.
The strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz cannot be overstated, as it serves as a vital chokepoint for global oil supplies. Iran had previously threatened to target vessels in the strait following US strikes and shot down a US helicopter, prompting Trump to vow a response. The suspension of strikes on the 105th day of the conflict suggests that diplomatic channels are now prioritised over military action.
Regional mediators are actively engaged in the process. Egypt has urged the US and Iran to seize the "available opportunity" for a deal, highlighting the international pressure to stabilise the region. Meanwhile, the Israeli prime minister’s office reported that Trump spoke to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about an emerging memorandum of understanding for negotiations, which would include terms for the broader settlement.
While the exact terms of the proposed deal have not been publicly disclosed by the US administration, the conditional nature of the strait’s reopening ties market stability directly to diplomatic progress. It remains unclear if the deal has been formally signed or if it is still in the negotiation phase, though Trump’s timeline suggests imminent finalisation. The extent to which oil sanctions will be lifted and by which authorities is also not yet specified.
