President Donald Trump announced Saturday that an agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz is nearing completion, involving the United States, Iran, and several Gulf nations. In a social media post, Trump confirmed discussions with leaders from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Pakistan, Turkey, Egypt, Jordan, and Bahrain, noting that final details would be unveiled soon.
Terms of the Deal
The proposed agreement includes Iran gradually reopening the strait, initiating talks on its uranium stockpile, and lifting the naval blockade. In return, the U.S. would phase in sanctions relief and unfreeze Iranian assets held overseas. Iranian media confirmed Tehran’s intent to maintain control over the strait through its newly established Persian Gulf Strait Authority.
Republican Pushback
The deal has drawn sharp criticism from Trump’s Republican allies, who warn of unintended consequences. Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) cautioned that any agreement perceived as recognizing Iran’s control over the strait could shift the regional balance of power and embolden Tehran.
‘If Iran is perceived as a dominant force requiring a diplomatic solution, it creates a nightmare for Israel,’ Graham said.
Sen. Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) echoed concerns, urging Trump to reopen the strait by force rather than through diplomacy.
‘Our commander-in-chief needs to allow America’s skilled armed forces to finish the destruction of Iran’s conventional military capabilities,’ Wicker posted.
Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo also dismissed the agreement as a rehash of Democratic policies, calling for decisive action against Iran.
‘Open the damned strait. Deny Iran access to money. Take out enough Iranian capability so it cannot threaten our allies,’ Pompeo said.
The debate underscores growing tensions within the GOP over U.S. strategy in the Persian Gulf, with critics warning that further concessions to Iran could destabilize the region.