President Trump says a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz could be announced this week.
President Trump stated that a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz could be announced this week, potentially easing pressure on the world economy. The agreement is currently in the final stages of drafting by Iran and Oman, though it may depend on the administration lifting its blockade on Iranian ports. While Iran seeks some measure of control over the waterway, the administration has previously ruled out any deal that would allow Iran to cement its grip over the strait, as it would represent a major loss for the United States. Simultaneously, tensions in Lebanon have risen as Israel conducted precise strikes in southern Lebanon following a ceasefire violation by Hezbollah. The Lebanon Health Ministry reported one person was already allegedly killed by Israeli forces in the town of Tebnine. Negotiators from both nations are currently meeting in Rome to discuss a deal where Israeli forces withdraw from occupied areas in exchange for Hezbollah's disarmament. Meanwhile, the U.S. Treasury has lifted sanctions on three Iran-linked companies, a move described by officials as not indicative of a new shift in U.S. policy toward the Islamic Republic.