US President Donald Trump said Iran had allowed a group of oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, calling the move a positive sign amid ongoing negotiations.
During a cabinet meeting at the White House, Trump recounted how the tanker movement first came to his attention through media reports.
“They said there was something unusual going on. There are eight boats going through the middle of the Strait of Hormuz — eight big tankers loaded with oil right through,” Trump said.
“And I said, well, I guess they were right … and I think they were labeled Pakistanis. And I said, well, I guess we’re dealing with the right people.”
The president added that Iran subsequently allowed additional vessels to pass, increasing the total number of tankers.
“Then they allowed two more boats,” Trump said, bringing the total to 10 oil tankers.
During the meeting, Trump also appeared to acknowledge the potential sensitivities of releasing such details. Addressing US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, he remarked: “I hope I didn’t screw up the negotiations.”
The comments come as Washington and Tehran remain engaged in fragile discussions aimed at de-escalating tensions in the Middle East. The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical artery for global oil supplies, making every development in the region closely watched by energy markets and politicians around the world.
Iran ‘begs for a deal’
Trump reiterated his position that Iran is eager to reach a ceasefire deal, pushing back against media reports suggesting otherwise.
“They’re begging to make a deal. I’m not. They’re begging to make a deal,” he said, criticizing the news coverage from sellers.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump struck a more forceful tone, warning Iran’s negotiators to act quickly.
“They better get serious soon before it’s too late… THERE IS NO TURNING BACK and it won’t be pretty!”
Weapons Deflection Notes
The president also addressed reports that the Pentagon might divert weapons originally intended for Ukraine to the Middle East, suggesting such moves are routine.
“We do it all the time … Sometimes we take from one and use it for another,” Trump said.
