United States President Donald Trump stated that the vital Strait of Hormuz will open “soon” and threatened that Iran will be “hit very hard” if the passage remains closed, according to remarks reported by AFP on Wednesday. The warning coincides with ongoing negotiations over energy stability and conflicting diplomatic claims in the region.
Trump Threatens Massive Strikes Over Strait Closure
Speaking to Fox News during a visit to California, President Trump asserted that Iran is eager to reach a settlement to end months of conflict. According to AFP, Trump delivered a stark ultimatum regarding the strategic waterway.
“The Strait will be opened very soon, or they will be hit very hard and then the Strait will be opened,” Trump told Fox News, as cited by AFP.
Trump added that the U.S. would launch a massive strike, describing it as the largest since World War II. He claimed that subsequent diplomatic contact from Iranian officials prompted renewed talks to finalize an agreement.
Treasury Secretary Cites Potential Energy Stabilization
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expressed optimism regarding diplomatic channels, stating that a breakthrough could stabilize global energy markets. According to a CNBC interview on Tuesday (August 4) cited by AFP, Bessent noted that hundreds of vessels are currently waiting to transit the corridor.
“We are negotiating with Iran, and I think there’s a possibility we can reach an agreement today or tomorrow to open the strait and move toward a more normal position in this conflict,” Bessent told CNBC.
Bessent added that despite recent volatility, enough vessels have begun moving to suggest that energy prices will return to stability, providing a global economic benefit.
Did you know?
Iran Denies Active Negotiations Amid Cargo Ship Attack
Contradicting Washington’s assessment, the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs denied that negotiations are underway. The denial was issued on Tuesday (August 4), coinciding with an incident where an unidentified projectile struck a cargo vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, underscoring persistent security risks in the tension-heavy corridor.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did President Trump make statements about the Strait of Hormuz?
President Trump made the remarks during a visit to California, as reported by AFP on Wednesday, August 5, 2026.
What did U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent say about energy prices?
According to an interview with CNBC on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, cited by AFP, Bessent stated he expected energy prices to stabilize as discussions progressed and more vessels began to sail through the strait.
How has Iran responded to claims of ongoing negotiations?
The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs denied that negotiations were taking place with Washington on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, according to AFP reports.
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