>> Continued From the Previous Page <<
Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi confirmed the policy reversal in a public statement, declaring that commercial traffic would resume under the terms of the ceasefire.
“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,” Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi announced on X.
The announcement marks a significant retreat from Iran’s earlier position and suggests that the combined economic and military pressure from the United States may be having its intended effect.
President Donald Trump wasted no time responding. In a statement posted to Truth Social, Trump struck a tone that mixed celebration with caution, making clear that while progress has been made, the United States is not backing down just yet.
“THE STRAIT OF HORMUZ IS COMPLETELY OPEN AND READY FOR BUSINESS AND FULL PASSAGE, BUT THE NAVAL BLOCKADE WILL REMAIN IN FULL FORCE AND EFFECT AS IT PERTAINS TO IRAN, ONLY, UNTIL SUCH TIME AS OUR TRANSACTION WITH IRAN IS 100% COMPLETE,” Trump wrote.
“THIS PROCESS SHOULD GO VERY QUICKLY IN THAT MOST OF THE POINTS ARE ALREADY NEGOTIATED,” he added. “THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER!”
Trump’s message underscores a broader strategy that has defined his approach to Iran throughout the crisis: apply maximum pressure while leaving the door open for a negotiated resolution. By maintaining the naval blockade even as shipping resumes, the administration is signaling that Iran must follow through on any commitments before full relief is granted.
For global markets, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz offers a measure of relief. The narrow passage handles a significant share of the world’s oil shipments, and any disruption can send prices soaring. Iran’s decision to restore access, even temporarily, may help stabilize energy flows in the short term.
Still, uncertainty remains. The reopening is tied directly to the duration of the ceasefire, meaning any breakdown in negotiations could quickly reignite tensions. With multiple parties involved and deep mistrust on all sides, the situation remains fluid.
For now, however, the balance of power appears to have shifted. Iran has stepped back, the Strait is open, and the United States is holding firm. Whether this moment leads to a lasting agreement or simply a brief pause in a larger conflict will depend on what happens next.
