U.S. President Donald Trump has announced the lifting of American naval restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz, signaling what could become a major de-escalation in one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.
In a lengthy statement posted Friday, Trump said ships delayed by what he described as an “unprecedented Naval Blockade” would now be allowed to resume movement through the strategic waterway, which handles a significant share of global oil and gas shipments.
“The Hormuz Strait must be immediately open, no tolls, for unrestricted shipping traffic, in both directions,” Trump wrote, adding that the blockade “will now be lifted.”
The announcement comes amid ongoing negotiations involving Iran, the United States, and international concerns over Tehran’s nuclear programme. Trump said Iran must agree that it would “never have a Nuclear Weapon or Bomb” as part of broader understandings currently under discussion.
He also claimed that underwater mines in the Strait of Hormuz had either been removed or detonated by U.S. naval forces, while remaining explosives would be cleared in coordination with Iranian authorities and the International Atomic Energy Agency.
Trump further asserted that nuclear material allegedly buried beneath damaged underground facilities following a U.S. B-2 bomber strike nearly a year ago would be excavated and destroyed under international supervision.
While no official response had yet emerged from Iranian authorities at the time of reporting, the statement suggests possible behind-the-scenes negotiations involving Washington, Tehran, and international nuclear regulators.
Strait of Hormuz Closure
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most strategically important maritime chokepoints, linking Gulf oil producers to global markets. Any disruption to shipping in the area typically triggers immediate volatility in global energy prices and international trade flows.
Trump said no financial transactions involving the arrangements would occur “until further notice,” adding that he was headed to the White House Situation Room for a “final determination.”
