Trump broadcasts Iran's 'collapse' to the world as Tehran begs to reopen Hormuz

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald J Trump on Tuesday, April 28, claimed that Iran has informed the United States that it is in a “state of collapse,” signaling mounting pressure on Tehran as the 57-day war continues.

In a Truth Social post, Trump said Iranian officials are seeking to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil chokepoint, amid ongoing economic and political strain.

The conflict, which began on February 28 with US and Israeli airstrikes, has been followed by a US naval blockade targeting Iranian ports. The blockade has been estimated to cut off up to $500 million in daily revenue tied to oil exports.

“Iran has just informed us that they are in a ‘State of Collapse’. They want us to ‘Open the Hormuz Strait’, as soon as possible,” Trump wrote.

Tehran pleads for Hormuz shipping reset

The reported request to reopen the Strait comes as Iranian leadership faces internal challenges. Trump referenced a “leadership situation” in Tehran, though details remain unclear. He also said the request reflects financial strain linked to restricted exports.

Shipping data from Kpler shows reduced activity through the Strait, with traffic levels remaining significantly below normal. Despite these indicators, Iranian state-linked outlets have previously downplayed the impact of the blockade.

Regional mediators, including officials in Pakistan and Oman, continue efforts to facilitate dialogue between the two sides.

Financial ruin triggers internal leadership crisis

Economic conditions inside Iran have tightened amid the blockade. Reports indicate disruptions in state finances, with inflation nearing 60% and concerns raised over delayed payments to military and security personnel.

Trump has repeatedly referenced these conditions in public remarks, including social media posts highlighting economic stress. Analysts say internal divisions could complicate Iran’s ability to respond cohesively to external demands, particularly on nuclear negotiations.

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has been engaged in diplomatic outreach, including meetings in St Petersburg with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

However, differences within Iran’s leadership structure have been cited as a factor slowing progress toward a unified negotiating position.

Global markets react to potential reopening

Energy markets have reacted sharply to developments in the Strait of Hormuz, with Brent crude prices rising approximately 50% since the conflict began. The waterway accounts for about 20% of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments, making its status central to global supply stability.

While the possibility of reopening the Strait has drawn attention, US officials have indicated that the naval blockade will remain in place pending a broader agreement, particularly on Iran’s nuclear program.

Trump said Iran can initiate further discussions, adding that the United States retains leverage in ongoing negotiations.