Iran Opens Strait of Hormuz During Ceasefire; Trump Keeps US Blockade
Iran announced Friday it fully reopened the Strait of Hormuz to commercial ships during the temporary Israel-Lebanon ceasefire. President Trump said he welcomed Iran's move but the US blockade on Iranian ships and ports stays in place until Iran makes a deal with America.
Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi declared Friday that the Strait of Hormuz "is declared completely open" for commercial vessels during the ceasefire period between Israel and Lebanon. The announcement marks a significant shift in the tense standoff over the vital shipping route.
The strait is one of the world's most important waterways, with roughly one-fifth of global oil shipments passing through the narrow channel between Iran and Oman. Iran had previously restricted access as tensions escalated in the region.
President Trump responded enthusiastically to Iran's announcement but made clear the US position remains unchanged. The American blockade on Iranian ships and ports "will remain in full force" until Tehran reaches a comprehensive agreement with the United States, Trump said.
The reopening applies only to the duration of the current ceasefire and only affects commercial vessels from other countries. Iranian ships still face US sanctions and cannot freely use international shipping lanes.
The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial shipping lane where about 20% of the world's oil passes through. When it's blocked, gas prices can spike globally. The partial reopening could ease some supply concerns, but ongoing US sanctions still limit trade.
Watch whether the ceasefire holds and if Iran keeps the strait open. Trump may announce details about potential Iran deal negotiations.
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