After fighting to open and then close the Strait of Hormuz, Trump says he will open the route ‘permanently’

Why did Trump decide to block the Strait of Hormuz after defending its opening for so long? The President of the United States, Donald Trump, said this Wednesday (15) on the social network Truth Social that he is “permanently opening the Strait of Hormuz” and cited China as one of the major parties interested in reopening. “China is very happy because I’m permanently opening the Strait of Hormuz. I’m doing it for them too — and for the world. This situation will never happen again. They’ve agreed not to send weapons to Iran. President Xi is going to give me a big hug when I get there in a few weeks. We’re working together smartly, and very well! Isn’t that better than fighting??? BUT REMEMBER: We’re very good at fighting if we have to — much better than anyone else,” he posted on Truth Social. 📱Download the g1 app to see news in real time and for free LIVE: Follow the latest news on the war in the Middle East ➡️The declaration comes two days after the Trump administration began blocking ships traveling through the Strait of Hormuz leaving or arriving at Iranian ports. This Wednesday, the United States Central Command reported that nine vessels complied with orders from American forces to turn around and return to a port or coastal area in Iran during the blockade. The American president’s strategy is similar to the one adopted in January of this year in Venezuela: financial strangulation. This is because, despite the blockade determined by Iran, the strait was never completely closed. The Iranians allow the passage of some oil tankers from strategic partners, however, upon payment of a ‘toll’ that can reach up to US$2 million per ship. Furthermore, Iranian vessels themselves also had free passage, keeping the country’s main source of revenue in operation. According to data and analysis company Kpler, Iran exported, on average, 1.85 million barrels of oil per day. By closing the route to vessels, Donald Trump cuts off an important source of revenue for the Iranian government, as oil represents around 10% to 15% of the country’s GDP. In response to the US blockade of the country’s vessels, Iran threatened this Wednesday (15) to block commercial flows in the Red Sea if the change persists. Blockade of the Strait of Hormuz for vessels from Iranian ports The closure of the Strait of Hormuz to ships traveling through the Strait of Hormuz leaving or arriving at Iranian ports was a change in the US position in the war against the country. Since the start of the war, Iran was using its control over the Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20% of the world’s oil passes, to pressure the US and Israel into war. Since then, Donald Trump has been working tirelessly to reopen the crossing and ease pressure on the global economy. The US position guide this Monday (13) is part of a war strategy. Blockade of the Strait of Hormuz Editoria de Arte/g1 Vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, off the coast of Musandam province, Oman, April 12, 2026. Reuters

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