President Donald Trump announced he is preparing to make a final decision regarding a possible agreement with Iran that hinges on Tehran’s commitment never to develop nuclear weapons and restoring free passage through the Strait of Hormuz. This vital shipping channel, critical for global energy supplies, would be reopened immediately without tolls or restrictions on maritime traffic in both directions.
Trump emphasized that Iran must accept a permanent prohibition on any nuclear weapons program as a core condition of the deal. He highlighted ongoing efforts by U.S. forces to clear mines from the strait, which have disrupted shipping due to a U.S. naval blockade. According to the President, this blockade will now be lifted to allow vessels previously trapped in the waterway to resume their voyages.
The statement detailed a commitment for Iran to complete the removal or detonation of mines remaining in the waterway. Trump also referenced a U.S. military strike nearly a year ago that destroyed enriched nuclear material buried deep underground in Iran, calling it "nuclear dust." He claimed this material would be unearthed in coordination with Iranian authorities and the International Atomic Energy Agency, then destroyed as part of the agreement.
No financial transactions are expected under the deal for the foreseeable future, Trump said, while mentioning vaguely that other, less critical points had been agreed upon without providing specifics. He did not disclose whether Iranian officials had agreed to the terms or the current status of the negotiations.
The President concluded that he would be meeting with advisers in the White House Situation Room to finalize his decision on the deal.
The Strait of Hormuz holds significant geopolitical importance given its role in transporting a large portion of the world’s oil and natural gas. Any agreement impacting this passage attracts close scrutiny from governments and energy markets worldwide. For nations like India, which rely heavily on Gulf crude oil imports, the smooth operation of the strait is crucial for maintaining energy security and stable shipping costs.