The United States will continue its naval blockade on Iran even after the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, President Donald Trump has announced.
In two separate posts on his social media platform Truth Social on Friday (April 17), Trump clarified that although the critical maritime route is now fully open for commercial shipping, restrictions on Iran will remain in force until a comprehensive agreement between Washington and Tehran is finalized.
“The Strait of Hormuz is now fully open for business and shipping,” Trump stated. “However, the U.S. naval blockade on Iran will remain in full effect until all aspects of our negotiations are 100 percent complete.”
He expressed optimism that a deal could be reached soon, noting that most key issues have already been settled through ongoing discussions.
Earlier, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced the reopening of the Strait, citing respect for a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon. During this period, all commercial vessels are expected to pass safely through the waterway.
The ceasefire in Lebanon was reportedly one of the main conditions in the broader negotiations between Washington and Tehran. President Trump had announced the temporary truce a day earlier as part of diplomatic efforts to ease regional tensions.
While the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz has brought relief to global markets—particularly easing concerns over oil supply—the continued U.S. blockade on Iranian ports underscores that a final agreement between the two sides remains pending.
