WASHINGTON, D.C. April 15, 2026– President Donald J. Trump declared today that the United States has achieved the permanent reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil chokepoint that has been heavily restricted amid the ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict.
In a statement posted on Truth Social and shared by the official White House X account (@WhiteHouse), President Trump said: “China is very happy that I am permanently opening the Strait of Hormuz. I am doing it for them, also – And the World. This situation will never happen again. They have agreed not to send weapons to Iran. President Xi will give me a big, fat, hug when I get there in a few weeks. We are working together smartly, and very well!! Doesn’t that beat fighting??? BUT REMEMBER, we are very good at fighting, if we have to – far better than anyone else!!!”
The announcement comes just days after the U.S. Navy imposed a blockade on Iranian ports and shipping through the strait following the collapse of high-stakes U.S.-Iran peace talks in Islamabad, Pakistan. Those talks failed to produce a long-term agreement, with key disputes centering on Iran’s nuclear program and control of the waterway. Iran had effectively restricted shipping since late February 2026, disrupting roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas supplies and driving up global energy prices.
The White House post included an image of the full presidential statement, framing the development as a major diplomatic and strategic win that benefits international trade and prevents future disruptions. Trump emphasized cooperation with China, claiming Beijing has committed to stopping weapons shipments to Iran in exchange for the reopening.
The Strait of Hormuz, which lies between Iran and Oman, has been at the center of escalating tensions since the U.S.-Israeli military campaign against Iran began earlier this year. U.S. officials had previously warned that failure to reopen the strait freely would trigger stronger action, including the recent naval blockade that turned back multiple vessels.
No immediate confirmation has been issued by Chinese or Iranian officials regarding the alleged arms agreement or the full status of the strait. Oil markets reacted with some easing earlier in the week on hopes of de-escalation, but volatility remains high.
The White House did not release additional details on the timeline for full normalization of shipping or the exact terms of any understanding with China. President Trump is scheduled to travel to China in the coming weeks, where he suggested further cooperation could be discussed.
This latest development marks a significant shift following weeks of military pressure and stalled negotiations. Life News Agency will continue to monitor the situation for updates on energy markets, regional stability, and diplomatic responses.
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