Trumps comments on potential US-Iran talks spark speculation about intentions

US President Donald Trump Posts on Social Media Regarding Iran Deal

Washington, DC - US President Donald Trump has made several statements on social media regarding a potential deal with Iran, claiming major concessions were secured before possible next round of ceasefire talks. On Friday, Trump posted on Truth Social, stating that Iran had agreed to open and “never close” the Strait of Hormuz, as well as turn over its nuclear material.

Iran has confirmed reopening the Strait of Hormuz for the duration of the current pause in fighting, which is set to end early next week, barring a new agreement. However, Iran has not officially responded to many of Trump’s claims.

Trump also stated that Israel would be prohibited from launching attacks in Lebanon and expected talks to move forward on Sunday with a permanent ceasefire deal in sight. A senior fellow at the Carnegie Middle East Center, Yezid Sayigh, noted that while Trump’s statements suggest positive momentum towards a comprehensive deal, there are still unresolved issues.

Separately, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced that the passage for all commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire. However, a senior Iranian military official stated that only non-military vessels would be allowed to transit the strait with permission from the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps.

Trump also claimed that Iran has agreed to never close the Strait of Hormuz again and that the US naval blockade of Iranian ports in the Gulf will remain in full force and effect. However, media reports indicate that Iran might close traffic in the Hormuz Strait if such a blockade were to remain in effect.

A maritime security expert, Alexandru Hudisteanu, stated that there has been no confirmation from Iran that it would never close the strait again. Another expert noted that Iran’s leadership may have made a commitment due to deterrence concerns, but it is unclear whether this pledge would be irrevocable.

Source: Al Jazeera