WASHINGTON D.C April 18, 2026 — U.S. President Donald J. Trump announced today that Iran has declared the Strait of Hormuz — a vital global oil shipping route — fully open and ready for unrestricted commercial passage.
The White House shared the statement on X (formerly Twitter), quoting President Trump directly:
“IRAN HAS JUST ANNOUNCED THAT THE STRAIT OF IRAN IS FULLY OPEN AND READY FOR FULL PASSAGE. THANK YOU!” — President Donald J. Trump
The post included an official image of the President speaking at the White House podium, with his message overlaid.
The announcement follows a statement issued minutes earlier by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who posted on X that, “in line with the ceasefire in Lebanon,” the passage for all commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz “is declared completely open” for the remaining period of the 10-day truce.
Background to the Breakthrough
The Strait of Hormuz, which carries roughly 20% of the world’s seaborne oil trade, had been severely restricted earlier this year during escalating tensions between the U.S., Israel, and Iran. In March 2026, Iran effectively closed or heavily restricted the waterway, prompting a U.S.-led aerial campaign and naval blockade aimed at forcing it back open.
A fragile two-week ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran was agreed earlier in April, linked to a separate 10-day truce in Lebanon. President Trump had repeatedly stated that reopening the strait was a key condition for any broader deal.
While Iran’s move marks a significant de-escalation, the White House indicated that the U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports and vessels will remain in place until ongoing negotiations with Tehran are “100% complete.”
Market Reaction
Oil markets reacted swiftly to the news. Brent crude plunged more than 9% in early trading, with analysts forecasting further easing of global energy prices if the passage remains stable.
What This Means
The reopening is being viewed as a temporary but important step toward stabilising the Middle East and global energy supplies. However, analysts caution that the truce is short-term, and long-term stability will depend on the success of U.S.-Iran negotiations and the durability of the Lebanon ceasefire.
Life News Agency will continue to monitor developments in the region, including any updates on oil tanker traffic through the strait and the status of broader diplomatic talks.
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