Trump calls Hormuz 'totally safe' but the shipping industry isn't buying it

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump said on Monday, June 15, that vessels carrying oil have begun moving freely through the Strait of Hormuz, signaling what he described as a return to normal maritime activity following a digital agreement between the United States and Iran.

“Ships are starting to move, many loaded up with Oil, out of the Strait of Hormuz. They are going along the Southern ‘Highway,’ which is totally safe, secure, and pristine. There are other areas of travel, also!!!” Trump wrote on Truth Social.

The statement comes amid efforts by Washington and Tehran to ease tensions and restore commercial traffic through one of the world’s most important energy corridors.

JD Vance says agreement already signed

Vice President JD Vance said in a Monday morning interview that the agreement with Iran had already been finalized electronically.

“We already signed the deal digitally yesterday,” Vance said during an appearance on 'Good Morning America'.

His comments appeared to clarify the status of the accord after differing signals from administration officials regarding when the Strait of Hormuz would fully reopen. 

Trump had earlier suggested the waterway would reopen Friday following the signing of an agreement in Switzerland.

Talks continue on long-term transit arrangements

Despite signs of progress, Vance acknowledged that several issues remain unresolved. He said discussions over a permanent toll-free reopening of the Strait of Hormuz would be addressed in ongoing “technical negotiations” between the two sides.

According to reports from two semi-official Iranian news agencies linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, Tehran has agreed to permit unrestricted passage during a 60-day negotiation period.

However, the reports indicated that Iran intends to introduce transit fees after that window expires.

Shipping industry remains cautious

Even as political leaders point to improvements, major concerns persist within the global shipping sector.

Industry representatives have warned that the security situation remains uncertain and that commercial operators are proceeding cautiously.

The international shipping industry said it still considers it “very risky for ships to commence transits” through the Strait of Hormuz.

The Strait of Hormuz handles a significant share of the world's oil exports, making its reopening a closely watched development for global energy markets and international trade.