Iran Declares Strait of Hormuz Open Amid Trump’s Optimism for Swift Deal to End Conflict
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi announced on Friday that the Strait of Hormuz is open for commercial vessels following a ceasefire agreement in Lebanon. This declaration comes as U.S. President Donald Trump expressed optimism about potential talks this weekend, suggesting that a deal to resolve the ongoing conflict with Iran could be reached “soon.”
Ceasefire Agreement and Shipping Resumption
Araqchi stated in a post on X that the strait would remain open for all commercial shipping during the U.S.-brokered 10-day truce, which was agreed upon on Thursday between Israel and Lebanon. This truce aims to halt hostilities between Israeli forces and Iran-backed Hezbollah.
In his statement, Araqchi emphasized the importance of the ceasefire, declaring, “In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire.”
Shortly after Araqchi’s announcement, Trump shared on Truth Social that “IRAN HAS JUST ANNOUNCED THAT THE STRAIT OF IRAN IS FULLY OPEN AND READY FOR PASSAGE.” However, both sides’ statements have raised questions about how quickly shipping operations could resume.
U.S. Blockade and Iranian Response
Trump indicated that a U.S. blockade on ships heading to Iranian ports would remain in effect until the transaction with Iran is “100% complete.” In response, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei warned that Tehran would take “necessary reciprocal measures” if the maritime blockade continued.
Trump also mentioned that the U.S. would work with Iran to recover its enriched uranium as part of any agreement to end the conflict. The nuclear program has been a significant point of contention in ongoing negotiations.
A senior Iranian official noted that while differences between the two sides persist, there is hope for a preliminary agreement in the coming days, facilitated by Pakistan’s mediation efforts. This agreement could potentially extend the ceasefire to allow for further discussions on lifting sanctions and addressing war damages.
Ongoing Conflict and Economic Impact
The conflict, which escalated following U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran starting February 28, has resulted in thousands of casualties and effectively shut down the Strait of Hormuz. This waterway is crucial for global oil and liquefied natural gas transit, accounting for approximately one-fifth of the world’s supply. The situation has raised concerns about a severe oil shock.
Following Araqchi’s announcement, oil prices dropped by about 10%, while global stock markets, which were already near record highs, saw further gains. Shipping companies cautiously welcomed the news but expressed the need for clarifications regarding potential risks, including the presence of mines in the area.
The U.S. Navy issued a warning to seafarers about the mine threat in parts of the waterway, advising caution. A senior Iranian official stated that any passage through the strait would require coordination with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
International Cooperation and Diplomatic Progress
In a recent video conference, representatives from over a dozen countries expressed their willingness to join an international mission to safeguard shipping in the Strait of Hormuz when conditions allow.
Trump indicated that further talks could occur this weekend, although some diplomats expressed skepticism about the feasibility of assembling officials in Islamabad, where discussions are expected to take place.
A Pakistani source involved in the mediation process reported progress in backdoor diplomacy, suggesting that an upcoming meeting might lead to a memorandum of understanding, followed by a comprehensive deal within 60 days. The source noted that both sides are agreeing in principle, with technical details to be addressed later.
Additionally, a senior Iranian official confirmed that there had been an agreement to unfreeze billions of dollars in Iranian assets as part of the accord to reopen the strait, although no specific timeline was provided.
Nuclear Negotiations and Remaining Challenges
During recent talks, the U.S. proposed a 20-year suspension of all Iranian nuclear activities, while Iran suggested a halt of three to five years. Iran has insisted on the lifting of international sanctions, while Washington has demanded the removal of any highly enriched uranium from Iran.
Reports indicate that there may be signs of compromise regarding the highly enriched uranium stockpile, with Tehran considering the option of shipping part of it out of the country. Trump stated that the U.S. would recover Iran’s enriched uranium, mentioning plans to excavate and transport it back to the United States.
Despite Trump’s optimistic outlook, Iranian sources have indicated that significant gaps remain to be resolved before a preliminary deal can be reached. Senior clerics in Iran have also expressed a defiant stance, asserting that negotiations cannot occur under humiliation.
Ceasefire in Lebanon
The U.S.-backed ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon appears to be holding, despite reports of some violations by Israeli forces. Paramedics reported that an Israeli drone strike resulted in one fatality in southern Lebanon.
The conflict reignited on March 2 when Hezbollah fired upon Israel in support of Tehran, prompting an Israeli offensive that has reportedly claimed nearly 2,300 lives. The Israeli military has not commented on the reported ceasefire violations.
As reported by www.arnnewscentre.ae.
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Published on 2026-04-17 17:11:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk