Picnews
US President Donald Trump revealed that Iran allowed 10 oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz as a “present” to show its seriousness about negotiations to end the conflict. Trump made this statement during a Cabinet meeting at the White House, elaborating on what he had previously described as a valuable energy-related concession from Iran.
According to Trump, Iran initially allowed eight oil tankers to pass through the Strait, followed by two more, bringing the total to 10. He suggested that the vessels were Pakistani-flagged and framed the move as a goodwill gesture from Tehran.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical shipping lane for global oil and gas, with about 20% of the world’s oil passing through it. Iran’s decision to allow the tankers to pass through is seen as a positive signal amid ongoing negotiations.
Trump interpreted this move as a sign that Iran is eager to reach a ceasefire agreement, saying “They are begging to make a deal”. He also warned Iranian negotiators to act quickly, stating “They better get serious soon, before it is too late.
The US has been engaging in backchannel talks with Iran, with a 15-point proposal shared through Pakistan. US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed that there have been “positive signs” in the negotiations.
The development has led to a slight decrease in oil prices, with markets interpreting the move as a reduction in immediate geopolitical risk. However, analysts note that the impact is incremental and highly conditional.
Trump has given Iran a 10-day deadline to show signs of “success” toward mediation, threatening to pursue strikes on energy infrastructure if negotiations fail. He also said that the US is talking to seven countries about securing the Strait of Hormuz.
