Online Desk

U.S. President Donald Trump has claimed that Iran wants to keep the Strait of Hormuz open to avoid heavy daily economic losses, while asserting that the strategic waterway is now effectively under U.S. control.

In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump described Iran’s earlier move to close the strait as “symbolic,” arguing that Tehran is under political pressure and shifting its position.

He further claimed that Iran is losing around $500 million per day due to disruptions in the waterway and suggested that signals have emerged from Tehran indicating a possible reopening.

However, Trump warned that any potential agreement would only be possible if Iran fully complies with U.S. conditions, adding that negotiations would otherwise be halted completely.

In the same post, he made strong remarks about Iran’s military capabilities, claiming that recent U.S. actions have significantly weakened the country’s naval and air power over the past years.

Trump also stated that Iran has “taken advantage of the United States for a long time,” but insisted that the situation has now changed. He indicated that military pressure will continue and that any diplomatic outcome will depend on Iran’s behaviour.

Meanwhile, on the issue of the ongoing ceasefire, Trump said that the truce with Iran has been extended following a request from Pakistan. However, he confirmed that sanctions and naval restrictions on Iranian ports will remain in place.

Analysts say this dual approach—extending a ceasefire while maintaining military pressure and blockade measures—has further complicated the already volatile situation in the Middle East.