In a rapid sequence of developments, Iran has declared the Strait of Hormuz fully open to commercial shipping, while the United States maintains its naval blockade and President Donald Trump firmly rejects any NATO assistance.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced today that the strategic waterway is now “completely open” to all commercial vessels for the remainder of the current ceasefire. In a post on X, Araghchi stated:
“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, on the coordinated route as already announced by Ports and Maritime Organisation of the Islamic Rep. of Iran.”
This move follows a fragile 10-day ceasefire framework tied to the Lebanon conflict and comes amid ongoing US-Iran tensions. It aims to ease pressure on global energy markets, where roughly 20-30% of the world’s oil passes through the strait.
Trump’s Response: Blockade Stays Strong
President Trump quickly responded, confirming that the US naval blockade will remain in full force until a broader deal is reached with Iran. He welcomed the Iranian announcement but made clear there would be no immediate relaxation of American enforcement.
In recent Truth Social posts, Trump has been vocal about the situation:
On the blockade: “Effective immediately, the United States Navy, the Finest in the World, will begin the process of BLOCKADING any and all Ships trying to enter, or leave, the Strait of Hormuz.”
Warning to Iran: “If any of these ships come anywhere close to our BLOCKADE, they will be immediately ELIMINATED, using the same system of kill that we use against the drug dealers on boats at Sea.”
On Iranian tolls: Trump labeled Iran’s previous control over the strait as “WORLD EXTORTION” and vowed to interdict vessels that had paid tolls to Tehran.
Trump Rejects NATO Offer, Slams Alliance as ‘Paper Tiger’
Trump also revealed he received an offer of help from NATO but turned it down. He sharply criticized the alliance for its lack of support during the recent Iran conflict, particularly in efforts to secure the Strait of Hormuz.
The situation remains highly fluid. The ceasefire is temporary, and broader US-Iran negotiations continue.
Trump has indicated that a permanent resolution depends on Iran abandoning its nuclear ambitions and ensuring unrestricted access to the strait.
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