Trump warns Iran to open Hormuz or get 'hit very hard'
President Donald Trump has warned Iran that it must reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face severe consequences, as negotiations regarding the waterway continue. While the U.S. suggests a deal could be imminent, Iran has denied formal negotiations, and the situation remains volatile due to recent attacks on merchant vessels.
Why it matters
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global energy chokepoint; instability there has immediate impacts on global oil prices and international security.
Iran wants to control the Strait of Hormuz and charge tolls - powers it did not exercise before the war began on Feb 28.
Vessels are seen anchored in the Strait of Hormuz, off the port city of Khasab on Oman’s northern Musandam Peninsula on May 17, 2026. (Photo: AFP)
WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump said a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz could come as soon as Wednesday (Aug 5) but warned Iran it would get "hit very hard" if negotiations fell through.
Transit of the waterway, a key conduit for global oil and gas supplies, has been a sticking point in talks and led to renewed fighting following an April ceasefire.
Iran has tightened its grip on Hormuz and wants to control the strait and charge tolls - powers it did not exercise before the war began on Feb 28.
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