Washington: In a surprising move, Iran has allowed 10 oil-laden vessels to pass through the crucial Strait of Hormuz, a decision described by former U.S. President Donald Trump as a “goodwill gesture” amid ongoing diplomatic negotiations. Trump made the announcement during a Cabinet meeting at the White House, revealing that the vessels, some of which were flying Pakistani flags, were permitted to transit the strait after discussions with Tehran.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Trump explained that Iran had initially agreed to let eight vessels pass through the strait to demonstrate its serious intentions in the negotiations. However, Iran eventually allowed 10 vessels to pass, adding two more as an apology for previous statements made by Iranian officials. This development follows Trump’s earlier comments in the Oval Office, where he referred to the event as a “very significant prize” without disclosing specifics.
The situation comes against the backdrop of Iran’s policy to restrict vessels it perceives as linked to the United States and Israel, while permitting limited passage for other ships through the strait, a vital artery for global oil shipments. Jasem Mohamed al-Budaiwi of the Gulf Cooperation Council noted that Iran has been imposing charges on some ships for safe passage through the strait. Trump criticized these charges, suggesting they should not be allowed, although he acknowledged that Iran was implementing them to a limited extent.
Despite the heightened tensions in the region, Trump remarked that global oil prices and stock markets have not reacted as drastically as he had anticipated. Earlier in the week, Iran announced it would allow “non-hostile vessels” to transit the Strait of Hormuz, explicitly excluding those linked to the United States, Israel, or parties involved in attacks against Iran.
As the situation unfolds, Trump has issued a five-day ultimatum, which expires on Saturday, threatening severe consequences if Iran does not comply with U.S. demands related to its nuclear and missile programs and ensure the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.