US and Iran to Discuss Strait of Hormuz Reopening Plans Soon

US President Donald Trump has stated that the Strait of Hormuz will reopen “fairly soon” with or without Iranian assistance. The waterway, which is critical to global energy supplies, has been effectively blocked by Iran since the start of a conflict between the US and Iran.

Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Trump said that other countries are willing to assist in reopening the strait. He did not provide further details on how this would be achieved. Trump also stated that he will not accept Iran’s plan to impose a toll booth system on vessels passing through the strait, even if a deal is reached with the US.

Iran has indicated that it intends to charge vessels fees for safe passage, regardless of whether a deal is reached. Trump emphasized that ensuring Iran does not possess nuclear weapons is a priority in any agreement, and that the strait would reopen automatically if this condition is met.

Despite a two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran announced on Tuesday, shipping in the strait remains disrupted, with only two vessels passing through on Friday. According to market intelligence provider S&P Global Market Intelligence, just 22 ships have exited the strait since the start of the ceasefire, compared to around 135 daily transits before the conflict.

US Vice President JD Vance and Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf will lead negotiations in Islamabad on Saturday aimed at securing a permanent end to the war. The US and Iran have offered conflicting messages on the agreed-upon terms for the negotiations, including a proposed 10-point plan put forward by Tehran.

Source: Al Jazeera