‘Hormuz Will Open Soon, With or Without Iran’: Donald Trump Ahead of Key Talks

Washington: US President Donald Trump has bluntly said that the Strait of Hormuz will soon be opened to traffic "with or without Iran's consent." He warned that if talks do not find a solution, America is capable of solving the problem in its own way. Trump said he would settle the matter “one way or another” if necessary.

What is America's biggest priority in the peace agreement?

Trump made it clear that the most important condition of any agreement is that Iran should not make nuclear weapons. “No nuclear weapons—that's about 99% of the whole agreement,” he said. According to him, the main goal is to completely stop Iran's nuclear program, while the issue of the Strait of Hormuz will be resolved automatically.

Who is leading these conversations?

The American side is led by Vice President JD Vance. He is also joined by special envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner. The Iranian side's team includes Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi. The Iranian planes were escorted by Pakistani fighter jets, while the American team arrived with its own security. Both sides are talking through “proximity talks” in separate rooms.

What was the background of the conflict?

In late February 2026, the US and Israel launched massive attacks on Iran (Operation Epic Fury). Many senior officials including Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei were killed in these attacks. In response, Iran launched missile-drone attacks on Israel and US bases in the Gulf region and virtually closed the Strait of Hormuz. This affected global oil and gas supply. Recently a two-week ceasefire was declared, after which the way for talks opened.

Why is the Strait of Hormuz so important?

The Strait of Hormuz is the world's most important sea route, through which about a quarter of the world's oil and one-fifth of its gas passes. Due to Iran's closure or control, oil prices skyrocketed in the international market and fuel shortage occurred in many countries. Trump is repeatedly saying that it is necessary to open it completely without any fee or restriction.

Will talks yield any solution?

Negotiations are difficult due to the deep wall of distrust between the two sides and the recent military confrontation. Nevertheless, considering the global pressure and economic loss, it is hoped that these talks in Islamabad can show the way forward. Experts say that if flexibility is shown from both sides then the ceasefire can become permanent, otherwise tension can increase again.

The biggest question right now is not whether talks will take place or not, but how much the two countries will compromise on their terms. Opening the Strait of Hormuz and stopping Iran's nuclear program – these two issues are the keys to this entire crisis. The decision that will be taken from Islamabad in the coming days will affect the energy security and politics not only of the Middle East but also of the entire world.