Donald Trump orders US Navy to Lift Blockade on Strait of Hormuz; signals end of Middle East Conflict

Washington: US President Donald Trump has signaled a major development regarding the opening of the Strait of Hormuz. In a post on Friday, Trump stated, "Iran must agree that they will never develop nuclear weapons or bombs. The Strait of Hormuz is to be opened immediately for unrestricted shipping traffic in both directions, free of any tolls."

Donald Trump further added that all naval mines—should any exist—will be destroyed. "We have already detonated and cleared several mines using our state-of-the-art underwater mine sweepers. Iran will immediately remove or detonate any remaining mines—which are likely few in number!" He continued, "Thanks to our incredible and unprecedented naval blockade, ships currently stranded in the Strait can now begin their journey home, as the blockade is being lifted."

What did Donald Trump say?

In the manner of delivering good news, the US President said, "Please convey my regards—from your favorite President—to your wives, husbands, parents, and families!" In his post, Trump wrote, "What is sometimes referred to as 'nuclear dust'—buried deep underground beneath mountains that collapsed following our powerful B-2 bomber strike (11 months ago)—will be extracted by the United States."

Donald Trump stated that this material will be extracted—in collaboration with the Islamic Republic of Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)—and subsequently completely destroyed. "For the time being, no funds will be exchanged. Consensus has also been reached on other, less critical issues. I am currently heading to the Situation Room to hold a meeting and make a final decision. Thank you for your attention to this matter!"

Are There Prospects of an Agreement Between Iran and the US?

According to reports, negotiators from the US and Iran have reached a consensus on a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU); however, final approval from both sides is still pending. The White House has confirmed that this agreement will extend the current ceasefire by an additional 60 days. During this period, both parties will engage in talks regarding a halt to Iran's nuclear program.

According to media reports, President Donald Trump has yet to sign the MoU. Citing a US official, the report states that Trump wishes to take some time to deliberate on the MoU before granting his approval. A diplomat from one of the nations involved in the mediation process noted that the report misrepresents the actual status of the negotiations, adding that final approval is still awaited from the Iranian side as well.