A week ago, Trump said Iran had agreed to allow additional oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, describing the move as a “tribute” to the United States as negotiations continue over a potential end to the escalating conflict.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said Iran had expanded an earlier concession involving 10 tankers to include 20 more vessels, signaling what he characterized as a step toward de-escalation.
They gave us… 20 boats of oil
The announcement builds on what Trump previously described as an initial “gift” earlier in the week, tied to ongoing discussions between U.S. officials and Iranian representatives. The Strait of Hormuz remains central to the negotiations, given its strategic role as a global energy chokepoint.
Before the conflict began in late February, the narrow waterway handled roughly one-third of global oil exports. Since then, traffic has reportedly dropped by as much as 90 percent, contributing to volatility in global energy markets and raising concerns among U.S. allies and international partners.
Administration officials have framed Iran’s decision to allow limited tanker passage as a positive signal, though questions remain about the scope and durability of the arrangement. Iranian officials have downplayed the move, suggesting the shipments reflect routine regional trade rather than a concession tied directly to U.S. demands.
Meanwhile, Trump on Saturday warned Iran of dire consequences if the Middle Eastern country does not reopen the Strait of Hormuz or agree to a ceasefire deal within 48 hours. “Remember when I gave Iran ten days to MAKE A DEAL or OPEN UP THE HORMUZ STRAIT,” he wrote on Truth Social. “Time is running out — 48 hours before all Hell will reign down on them. Glory be to GOD!”
He appeared to drop a similar warning late Sunday, according to a Truth Social post
He appeared to drop a similar warning late Sunday, according to a Truth Social post that said, simply, “Tuesday, 8 P.M. Eastern Time!”
The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial shipping route for oil, was closed by Iran in retaliation for the recent U.S.-Israeli attacks. The closure has unsettled the global energy market.
His latest statement reiterates a warning he gave on March 26, in which he stated that he would postpone attacks on Iran’s energy infrastructure by an additional 10 days in hopes of reaching a deal.
Last weekend, Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum, promising to “obliterate” Iran’s power plants if the country did not reopen this vital maritime chokepoint.
