US Aims to Reopen Hormuz Strait by Friday After Iran Deal

U.S. President Donald Trump declared on Sunday that the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global trade, would be fully reopened by Friday. This announcement follows the signing of a framework agreement between Washington and Tehran, intended to end the war in the Middle East that began in March with American and Israeli involvement.

The vital waterway was blockaded by Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps shortly after the conflict's commencement. Tehran's move disrupted global economic plans, damaged international trade, and significantly increased prices for oil, gas, and fertilizers. An estimated 1,500 ships, including hundreds of oil tankers, are reportedly stranded in the Persian Gulf due to the blockade.

While the U.S. announced on Monday that an initial route through Hormuz was open, minimal additional traffic has been observed. Major shipping companies, having been disappointed by previous announcements from Trump, are adopting a wait-and-see approach. They prefer to wait until the official signing on Friday and for confirmation that the passage is indeed clear.

Full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is expected to take time. U.S. officials estimate it could take up to thirty days to clear the area of mines. The extent and number of mines laid by Iran remain unknown, adding a layer of uncertainty to the timeline for restoring normal maritime traffic through this crucial global artery. The U.S. Navy's mine countermeasures ship USS Pioneer has been involved in exercises, including controlled mine detonations, highlighting the ongoing efforts to ensure safe passage.

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Fire up your engines, ships of the world, let the oil flow.