US President Donald Trump said the Strait of Hormuz would be “completely open” by Friday, the day a framework agreement between the United States and Iran is expected to be formally signed in an effort to end the war in the Middle East.
Trump points to Strait of Hormuz reopening
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said vessels, including many oil tankers, had already started moving through the strategic waterway.
“Ships, including many carrying oil, have begun exiting the Strait,” he wrote. He had earlier encouraged vessels around the world to “start their engines” so that “oil can flow”.
Iranian media also reported that several oil tankers and cargo vessels had crossed the maritime zone, which had previously been affected by a US naval blockade.
Questions remain over agreement details
According to a senior US official, the framework agreement has already been electronically signed by Trump, Vice President JD Vance and Iranian Parliament Speaker and chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.
However, the full contents of the agreement have not yet been made public and questions remain over issues that had divided both sides during negotiations.
Trump described the agreement as one that “will bring peace to the region”, adding during the G7 summit in France that he intended to release the text because it was “very strong”.
He also suggested that after the signing ceremony in Geneva, a 60-day period of talks towards a final agreement could begin.
Iran adopts more cautious tone
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi appeared more cautious, saying previous experiences with unfulfilled commitments remained a concern.
“We have all this in mind during the negotiation and implementation process,” he said, while adding that Iran was also seeking economic opportunities through the agreement.
According to Iranian officials, the expected negotiations would focus on sanctions relief, Iran’s nuclear programme, reconstruction and economic development, as well as the creation of a monitoring mechanism to oversee commitments.
Markets react with relief
News of a potential agreement was met positively by international markets, pushing oil prices lower amid hopes of easing regional tensions.
At the same time, reactions within the region remained mixed, with some expressing scepticism over whether a lasting solution would emerge.
Also read: Macron says Hormuz maritime mission can be deployed within days
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