Trump Optimistic on Iran Deal for Hormuz Strait

President Donald Trump expressed optimism on Sunday about reaching a deal with Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route closed for more than three weeks amid escalating tensions, while warning of severe military consequences if negotiations fail by his Tuesday deadline.

The strait, which handles 20 to 30 percent of global oil transit, has remained shut since U.S. and Israeli strikes began over a month ago, disrupting international trade and driving up energy prices. Brent crude settled above $109 per barrel on Thursday, with traders anticipating further volatility. Iranian officials have rejected a U.S. proposal for a 45-day ceasefire that included demands to restore access, countering with an offer Trump described as a "significant step" but ultimately dismissing. Tehran has also dismissed reports of active talks and signaled plans to impose tolls on any limited shipments, payable in euros or Bitcoin, to offset conflict-related damages.

Trump, speaking in interviews, emphasized that indirect negotiations through mediators in Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey are progressing, including text exchanges between his advisers and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi....