Washington: US President Donald Trump has said that America is preparing to take a final decision on a possible deal with Iran, even as he laid down strict conditions linked to Tehran’s nuclear programme and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
In a statement posted on Truth Social, Trump said Iran must agree that it will never possess a nuclear weapon or bomb. He also demanded that the Strait of Hormuz be opened immediately for unrestricted shipping movement from both directions, without any toll or obstruction.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important maritime routes for oil and gas transport. Any tension in this narrow waterway has a direct impact on global energy markets and shipping costs. Trump’s remarks have therefore drawn close attention from governments, traders and security observers across the world.
Trump said he was holding a meeting in the Situation Room to make what he described as a “final determination” on the issue. His statement came amid discussions over a possible 60 day ceasefire understanding between the United States and Iran. However, the arrangement has not yet received final approval from both sides.
The US President also said that any water mines, if present in the Strait, must be removed. He claimed that American underwater mine sweepers had already cleared several mines through detonation and said Iran must remove any remaining mines and complete the process.
Trump further stated that enriched material, which he referred to as “nuclear dust”, would be removed and destroyed in coordination with the United States, Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency. He claimed the material was buried after an earlier B2 bomber strike.
Iran, however, has responded cautiously and sharply to the developments. A social media account linked to Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Tehran did not trust guarantees or words and would judge only by action. The post said, “We do not gain concessions through talks, but through missiles. In negotiations, we only make them understand.”
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also said he had spoken to his Omani counterpart and expressed Iran’s solidarity with Oman in the face of any threat.
For now, the proposed deal remains uncertain. While Trump’s remarks suggest a possible easing of the Hormuz blockade, Iran’s response shows that mistrust between Washington and Tehran remains deep. The next move by both sides will decide whether the region moves towards de escalation or faces another round of confrontation.