Trump Claims Iran in 'State of Collapse' as Strait of Hormuz Negotiations Continue

Gate News message, April 28 — U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Iran has requested the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing negotiations to end the two-month conflict between the two nations. Trump stated that he wants Iran to lift the U.S. naval blockade and described Iran's current situation as a "state of collapse," claiming there is uncertainty regarding leadership within the country.

The conflict, which began on February 28 with U.S. and Israeli airstrikes, has severely disrupted global energy supplies. The U.S. administration is attempting to restrict Iranian oil revenues by blocking maritime traffic to Iranian ports, while Iran has largely kept the Strait of Hormuz closed. Tehran has repeatedly stated it will not reopen the waterway unless the U.S. lifts its blockade. According to sources close to mediation efforts, Iran is expected to present a revised peace plan in the coming days, which could include a provisional agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for the U.S. lifting its blockade. However, Washington is unlikely to accept Iran's desire to maintain partial control over the strait. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Iran's offer was better than expected but questioned whether the party making the offer had sufficient authority.

The prolonged negotiations are intensifying pressure on energy markets. Brent crude oil prices rose above $111 per barrel, up approximately 6% on a weekly basis. Additionally, the United Arab Emirates announced its surprise withdrawal from OPEC, a move considered a significant blow to both the cartel and its leader, Saudi Arabia. UAE Energy Minister Suhail Al Mazrouei stated that the market was already tight in terms of supply and that more flexibility was needed under current circumstances.