US President Donald Trump has made a bold and unusual statement about the Strait of Hormuz, claiming he is permanently opening the vital waterway, especially for China.
In a post on Truth Social on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, Trump wrote: “China is very happy that I am permanently opening the Strait of Hormuz. I am doing it for them, also, and the world. … President Xi will give me a big, fat hug when I get there in a few weeks.”
Trump added that China has agreed not to send weapons to Iran as part of the understanding. He described the move as a smart deal that benefits both countries and the global economy.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important oil routes. About 20% of global oil passes through this narrow channel. China relies heavily on it for its energy imports from the Middle East.
Trump’s comments come shortly after the US Navy began a blockade of Iranian ports in the Strait following the failure of peace talks in Islamabad. The blockade was meant to pressure Iran, but Trump now claims the situation is being resolved in a way that keeps the strait open for safe shipping.
The statement has drawn mixed reactions. Some see it as typical Trump-style diplomacy mixing business with personal remarks. Others have criticised the casual language about receiving a “big fat hug” from Chinese President Xi Jinping during a planned meeting in May.
Meanwhile, China has previously called the US blockade “dangerous and irresponsible” and insisted on its right to continue trade with Iran. A Chinese tanker was reported to have passed through the strait despite the blockade.
Trump’s remarks highlight the complex mix of competition and cooperation between the US and China amid the ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
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