Iran Reopens Strait of Hormuz as Ceasefire Holds

Iran has declared the Strait of Hormuz “completely open” to commercial shipping for the remainder of the current ceasefire, according to reporting from CNN.

The vital maritime chokepoint, through which a significant portion of the world’s oil supply passes, had been at the centre of rising tensions during the conflict. US President Donald Trump said Iran has committed to never closing the strait again. However, he added that a US naval blockade of Iranian ports will remain in place until a broader peace agreement is “100% complete”.

CNN reports that negotiations toward ending the war could be finalised as early as this weekend, though key disagreements remain. Sources told the network that the Trump administration is considering unfreezing $20 billion in Iranian assets as part of the talks. Trump also said the US would take control of Iran’s enriched uranium and insisted that no money would “exchange hands.”

Despite Iran’s announcement, Iranian state media warned that Tehran could close the Strait again if the US blockade continues, calling it a potential violation of the ceasefire. A source cited by Fars News Agency said commercial vessels must follow routes designated by Iran and coordinate with Iranian authorities.

Meanwhile, a 10-day ceasefire in Lebanon appears to be holding. Israel has said it will not withdraw from southern Lebanon, while Iran-backed Hezbollah has warned it will only adhere to the truce if Israeli attacks stop. The Lebanon conflict has remained a major sticking point in broader negotiations over the war involving Iran.