Trump says Iran’s handling of Strait of Hormuz is ‘not the agreement we have’
Trump Criticizes Iran’s Management of Hormuz Strait
US President Donald Trump has criticized Iran for its ‘poor management’ of oil transit through the crucial Strait of Hormuz, claiming it does not align with the existing agreement. His remarks highlight the uncertainty surrounding the ceasefire terms, as reports indicate disagreements over key provisions included in the pact. This comes amid Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s announcement of direct negotiations with Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah’s disarmament and the establishment of peaceful relations.
Efforts to Resume Ceasefire Talks
A US State Department official confirmed the upcoming meeting in Washington to address ongoing ceasefire discussions between Israel and Lebanon. Lebanese authorities had urged a pause in hostilities before the talks, but Netanyahu stated in a speech to northern Israel residents that Lebanon remains in conflict. Israeli strikes continued in the region, hitting Hezbollah rocket sites in the south, which led to a temporary decline in attacks overnight.
“I spoke with Bibi, and he’s going to low-key it. I just think we have to be sort of a little more low-key,” Trump said after a call with Netanyahu.
The strikes on Thursday resulted in renewed evacuation alerts for Beirut’s southern suburbs. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO’s head, noted that Jnah, home to two major hospitals, is among the areas affected. He emphasized that evacuating approximately 450 patients, including 40 in ICU, is operationally challenging due to a lack of alternative medical facilities.
Among the injured, some were part of the 1,150 reported wounded during Wednesday’s Israeli attacks. Tedros also highlighted that the Ministry of Public Health’s headquarters, housing over 5,000 people in shelters, lies within the evacuation zone. The ceasefire, initially unclear on Lebanon’s inclusion, sparked Iran’s claim that Israel breached the terms, prompting a halt to shipping through Hormuz and threatening retaliation.
Impact of Ceasefire Ambiguity
Trump’s comments on ship traffic through the strait, which carries 20% of global oil and LNG, include a warning: “There are reports that Iran is charging fees to tankers going through the Hormuz Strait. They better not be and, if they are, they better stop now.” Meanwhile, Israel maintains control of southern Lebanon, where it has razed villages recently. The success of peace talks hinges on a temporary ceasefire commitment, which remains uncertain.
Lebanon’s government, which will engage in negotiations with Israel, has imposed restrictions on Hezbollah’s military activities since early March. However, the group continues its operations despite having representation in the Lebanese cabinet. The country’s cabinet directed security forces to limit weapons in Beirut to state institutions, with Prime Minister Nawaf Salam stating, “The army and security forces are requested to immediately begin reinforcing the full imposition of state authority over Beirut Governorate.”
Netanyahu’s office acknowledged Lebanon’s call to demilitarize Beirut, stating that talks would focus on disarming Hezbollah and fostering peace between the nations. According to Axios, Netanyahu’s statement followed discussions with Trump and the White House, signaling a coordinated effort to stabilize the region.
