Trump claims Hormuz reopening is ‘easy’ as limited vessel traffic returns
WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump said on Friday, April 3, that the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route disrupted by the ongoing conflict with Iran, could be reopened “with a little more time.”
His comments come as oil and gas prices have surged following Iran’s effective closure of the strait during the war.
While traffic through the waterway remains sharply reduced, a small number of international vessels have recently made successful crossings. The situation continues to have significant implications for global energy markets and trade.
Trump says reopening possible as conflict continues
In a post on X, Trump suggested that the US could restore access to the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz in the near future, though he did not provide specific details on how this would be achieved.
“With a little more time, we can easily OPEN THE HORMUZ STRAIT, TAKE THE OIL, & MAKE A FORTUNE. IT WOULD BE A "GUSHER" FOR THE WORLD???” he said.
The president did not clarify what developments he expected would enable the reopening of the strait, which has been largely restricted since the start of the US-Israel military campaign against Iran 35 days ago.
The waterway, located between Iran and Oman, is a key transit route for a significant portion of the world’s oil and natural gas supplies.
Since the escalation of the conflict, shipping activity through the strait has dropped sharply. According to data from Lloyd’s List Intelligence, traffic has fallen by approximately 90%, with only around 150 vessels passing through since March 1.
Most of these ships have been linked to Iran or countries maintaining trade ties with Tehran, including China, India, and Pakistan.
Limited ship crossings signal cautious movement
Despite the ongoing restrictions, a small number of vessels have successfully navigated the strait in recent days.
The CMA CGM Kribi, a container ship operated by the French shipping company CMA CGM, is believed to be one of the first vessels with French links to transit the area since the closure.
Tracking data showed the ship departed from waters near Dubai and arrived off Muscat, Oman, after passing through the strait.
According to maritime tracking information, the vessel took a northerly route between the Iranian islands of Qeshm and Larak.
Analysts have suggested that Iran has been using this corridor as a controlled passage point, with reports indicating that ships may be required to pay significant fees to ensure safe transit. CMA CGM declined to comment on the voyage.
A Japanese-linked vessel also completed a crossing, according to its operator.
The liquefied natural gas tanker SOHAR LNG, sailing under a Panama flag, was reported safe along with its crew off the coast of Oman.
Its owner, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, confirmed the transit but did not provide details about the timing or whether any arrangements were made with Iranian authorities.
