The US has welcomed the Iran move to open the strait of Hormuz but maintained that its naval blockade on Iranian ships and ports will continue until a final agreement is reached.
BY PC Bureau
April 17, 2026: Key developments across the Middle East on Friday signalled cautious progress amid ongoing tensions, with movement on maritime access, diplomatic negotiations, and a fragile ceasefire in Lebanon.
Iran announced that the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz will remain open to all commercial shipping for the duration of the current ceasefire. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said vessels would be required to follow coordinated routes designated by Iran’s Ports and Maritime Organization to ensure safe passage.
US President Donald Trump welcomed the move, stating that Iran had committed to keeping the waterway open going forward. However, he made it clear that the US naval blockade targeting Iranian ships and ports would remain in place until a comprehensive agreement is fully finalised.
In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire, on the coordinated route as already announced by Ports and Maritime Organisation of the Islamic Rep. of Iran.
— Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) April 17, 2026
On the diplomatic front, officials from both sides indicated that a broader deal to formally end the conflict could be reached as early as this weekend, though key differences remain unresolved. Reports suggest the US administration is considering unfreezing nearly $20 billion in Iranian assets as part of the negotiations. Trump also said Washington intends to take control of Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile, asserting that no financial exchange would be involved.
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Meanwhile, a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon appeared to be holding after coming into effect late Thursday. Israel has said its forces will not withdraw from southern Lebanon during the truce period. Iran-backed Hezbollah has warned it will continue to observe the ceasefire only if Israeli military operations are fully halted.
The situation in Lebanon remains a critical factor in the broader US-Iran negotiations, with both sides viewing stability on that front as essential to securing a wider agreement.
