'We ended up making a deal': Trump on Iran pact and Strait of Hormuz reopening

US President Donald Trump on Monday said the Strait of Hormuz will be "completely open" from Friday following a deal between the United States and Iran aimed at ending the conflict that had disrupted shipping through one of the world's most important maritime routes.

Speaking at the start of bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron ahead of a G7 summit in France, Trump expressed confidence that navigation through the strait would soon return to normal.

Shipping route partially reopened

According to Trump, the Strait was "already partially opened", although there was "hunting" going on to ensure it was de-mined.

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The Strait of Hormuz is a critical passage for global energy supplies, and concerns over disruptions had prompted discussions about securing the route. Britain and France had proposed a joint naval mission to help keep the waterway open.

However, Trump suggested such assistance may not be necessary, saying, "I don't think we are going to need much help" on keeping the strait open.

Trump hails Iran deal

The US president also praised the agreement reached with Iran, describing it as a significant development for regional stability.

He said, "the main thing is Iran will not have a nuclear weapon."

Trump further indicated that Washington was engaging positively with Iran's current leadership following the death of supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on the first day of the US-Israeli war on February 28.

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Remarks on Iranian leadership

Commenting on developments in Tehran, Trump said, "The first set (of leaders) is gone, the second set is gone and we found the third set to be very smart... We ended up making a deal."

He did not specify which leaders he was referring to.

Looking ahead, Trump added, "I think a lot of great things are going to happen in the Middle East right now." He also said Vice President JD Vance would attend a signing ceremony for the deal on Friday, though he did not specify the location.

FAQs:

What did Donald Trump say about the Strait of Hormuz?

Donald Trump said the Strait of Hormuz will be "completely open" from Friday following a deal between the United States and Iran.

Why is the Strait of Hormuz important?

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important shipping routes and a key passage for global energy supplies and international trade.