Trump says Iran’s handling of Strait of Hormuz is ‘not the agreement we have’
Trump Criticizes Iran’s Control of Strait of Hormuz
US President Donald Trump has criticized Iran’s management of the crucial Strait of Hormuz, calling it a “very poor job” and stating it “was not the agreement we have.” His remarks highlight the uncertainty surrounding the ceasefire deal, as reports indicate disagreements over its terms. This comes amid Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s announcement of direct negotiations with Lebanon, aimed at disarming Hezbollah and fostering peace.
US Mediates Ceasefire Talks Between Israel and Lebanon
A State Department representative confirmed that the US will host a meeting next week in Washington to address ongoing ceasefire discussions between Israel and Lebanon. Lebanese officials had urged a pause in hostilities before talks commenced, but Netanyahu asserted in a speech to northern Israel residents: “There is no ceasefire in Lebanon.” Israeli strikes in the region intensified throughout Thursday, targeting Hezbollah’s rocket sites in the south, before slowing 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, suggesting Israel would reduce its military actions to support peace efforts.
Escalation and Evacuation Concerns
The strikes on Thursday prompted new evacuation alerts for Beirut’s southern suburbs, including the Jnah area, home to two key hospitals. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, head of the World Health Organization, noted that approximately 450 patients—40 in ICU—would need to be relocated, but alternative facilities were unavailable, complicating the operation.
Tedros also highlighted that the Ministry of Public Health’s headquarters, which shelters over 5,000 people, lies within the evacuation zone. The ceasefire, which initially sparked confusion about Lebanon’s inclusion, saw Iran accuse Israel of breaching its terms, leading to renewed restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
Strategic Tensions and Political Dynamics
Trump posted on Truth Social, questioning Iran’s fees for tankers traversing the Hormuz Strait, a critical route for 20% of global oil and LNG. Meanwhile, Israel’s military remains active in southern Lebanon, where it has recently destroyed villages. The success of talks hinges on Lebanon’s commitment to a temporary ceasefire, though Hezbollah—despite its political presence—continues to operate independently under Iranian backing.
Lebanon’s cabinet ordered security forces to limit weapons to state institutions in Beirut, 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 for demilitarization, emphasizing disarmament and peace relations as central to the negotiations.
