Trump Announces Iran Peace Deal Amid Controversy Over Strait of Hormuz
Trump's Announcement of the Iran Peace Deal
On Sunday night, US President Donald Trump revealed a significant peace agreement with Iran, coinciding with his 80th birthday. He referred to this development as a 'birthday breakthrough' aimed at ceasing hostilities in the Middle East. In a post on Truth Social, Trump urged global shipping to prepare, stating, "ships of the world, start your engines," and announced the initial terms of the peace deal, which includes the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. He emphasized, "Let the oil flow," but clarified that the reopening would only take effect once the agreement with Iran is finalized.
On Monday, Trump reiterated on Truth Social that vessels were beginning to exit the Strait of Hormuz, indicating that this vital maritime route was becoming accessible for international trade. He noted, "Ships are starting to move, many loaded up with oil, out of the Strait of Hormuz. They are going along the Southern 'Highway,' which is totally safe, secure, and pristine. There are other areas of travel also," he stated.
US Navy Disputes Trump's Claims
US Navy Contradicts Trump's Claim on Hormuz Opening
Despite Trump's optimistic statements, the US Navy contradicted him, asserting that the blockade on Iranian ports remains in place until a ceasefire agreement with Iran is executed, which is scheduled for June 19, 2026. The United States Naval Forces Central Command (USNAVCENT) cautioned merchant vessels against attempting to navigate the area until further notice. They highlighted that a military blockade is still active in the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, North Arabian Sea, and the Strait of Hormuz.
The Navy stated, "A military blockade of Iranian ports remains in effect restricting all traffic inbound and outbound from these ports. Ships aiding vessels violating the blockade or conducting ship-to-ship transfers are subject to boarding. Enforcement actions include disabling and destructive fires upon vessels who do not demonstrate immediate compliance with blockading forces and or boarding directions."
The Navy further warned that vessels must comply with instructions from blockading forces to avoid escalation, which could lead to disabling or destructive fire. Masters of ships are advised to prioritize the safety of their crews during these enforcement actions.
Trump's Remarks at the G7 Summit
Trump Again Claims Hormuz Open Partially on Sidelines of G7
During his arrival in Geneva for the G7 Summit, Trump claimed that the Strait of Hormuz was "already partially opened" and predicted it would be fully operational by Friday, coinciding with the anticipated signing of a memorandum of understanding between the US and Iran. He mentioned that efforts were underway to locate a few mines that had been discovered, but insisted that ships were already beginning to depart.
Trump stated, "On Friday, it’ll be completely open," during a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron. He expressed frustration over European leaders' reluctance to support the US-Israeli stance against Iran but suggested that the strait would reopen without significant assistance from France. He remarked, "I don’t think we’re going to need much help, because we have an agreement where it’s going to be open, and it’s toll-free." He added, "I don’t think it’s a bad idea to have a ship or two up here from a few countries."