Washington, April 17, 2026 – The Europe Today: US President Donald Trump has thanked Iran for reopening the strategic Strait of Hormuz, calling the move a positive step toward restoring maritime activity and regional stability.
In a statement, President Trump said that Iran had announced the complete reopening of the Strait, making it fully operational for commercial activity and transit. He, however, emphasized that the United States would maintain its naval blockade in the region until a “100 percent agreement” is reached with Tehran.
The US president noted that most negotiation points between the two sides had already been discussed, expressing optimism about a potential deal in the near future. He stated that under the proposed arrangement, the United States would take control of Iran’s enriched uranium, while clarifying that no financial compensation would be involved.
Trump further stressed that the prospective agreement with Iran is separate from the situation in Lebanon, adding that Washington would continue to engage independently with Beirut. He also stated that the United States would address the issue of Hezbollah through appropriate measures.
Commenting on regional security, President Trump said that Israel would halt further bombing operations in Lebanon as part of ongoing de-escalation efforts.
Earlier, Iran announced the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, restoring the movement of commercial vessels through the critical waterway. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that the passage of all commercial ships through the Strait would remain fully open for the duration of the ceasefire period.
In a statement shared on social media, Araghchi said that following the ceasefire in Lebanon, the Strait would remain accessible for commercial shipping, with vessels required to navigate through routes designated by Iran’s Ports and Maritime Organisation.
The Strait of Hormuz, a key artery for global energy supplies, holds immense strategic importance, and its reopening is expected to ease concerns over disruptions to international trade and oil markets.
