Trump warns Iran: Reopen Strait of Hormuz or face 'very hard' hit

U.S. President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to Iran on Tuesday, stating that the strategic Strait of Hormuz must be reopened "very soon" or the country would be "hit very hard."

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The strait is going to be open very soon, or they're going to get hit very hard -- and then the strait's going to be open.

Trump made the remarks during an interview with Fox News while visiting California. His comments come amid reports, cited by Axios, that the United States, Iran, and Oman are nearing an interim agreement aimed at reopening the vital waterway. Washington had reportedly been hoping to announce the deal as early as Wednesday.

"The strait is going to be open very soon, or they're going to get hit very hard -- and then the strait's going to be open," Trump said, emphasizing that "action is the only thing that matters."

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We're having very good discussions.

The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial chokepoint for global oil and gas transportation, has been a focal point of escalating tensions. Trump indicated that "very good discussions" were ongoing, suggesting Iran is eager to end the conflict that began on February 28 with strikes by the U.S. and Israel on Iran.

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The only thing that matters is action. And they want to make a deal. We'll see what happens.

According to Axios, which cited unnamed regional officials and a U.S. official, the proposed deal would be a 60-day arrangement ensuring safe passage through the strait. This agreement would not involve toll payments and could potentially be extended. Under the terms, all traffic entering the Gulf would use a northern shipping lane, while outbound traffic would navigate a southern lane through Omani territorial waters.

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I have plenty of time.