Trump says Iran’s handling of Strait of Hormuz is ‘not the agreement we have’
Trump Criticizes Iran’s Control Over Hormuz Strait
Donald Trump, the U.S. president, criticized Iran for its ‘inadequate management’ of oil transit through the critical Strait of Hormuz, asserting that it deviates from the existing agreement. The remarks highlight the precarious state of the ceasefire deal, with disputes over its terms leading to confusion among stakeholders. This comes as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced plans for direct talks with Lebanon, aiming to address Hezbollah’s military presence and foster peace relations.
Evacuation Warnings and Medical Crisis
Israeli strikes on Thursday intensified in Lebanon, focusing on Hezbollah’s rocket sites, prompting new evacuation alerts in Beirut’s southern areas. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that the Jnah district, home to two major hospitals, is among the zones affected.
“At this time, no alternative medical facilities are available to receive approximately 450 patients from the two hospitals (including 40 in the ICU), making their evacuation operationally unfeasible,”
stated Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO’s head.
Lebanese Government’s Role in Ceasefire
Lebanese officials had previously urged a ceasefire before negotiations commenced. However, Netanyahu later emphasized that “there is no ceasefire in Lebanon.” The Israeli military’s continued operations in the south, where villages have been destroyed, cast doubt on the prospects of meaningful progress in talks. The Lebanese government, which has restricted Hezbollah’s military activities since March, now faces challenges in exerting control over the militant group, despite its political representation.
Trump highlighted concerns over Iran’s actions, stating on Truth Social that the country was reportedly charging fees for ship traffic through the Hormuz Strait—a key route for 20% of global oil and LNG. “They better not be and, if they are, they better stop now,” he warned. Meanwhile, the U.S. State Department confirmed it would host a meeting next week to discuss ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Lebanon.
Netanyahu’s office acknowledged Lebanon’s call to demilitarize Beirut, but the focus remains on disarming Hezbollah. The ceasefire, initially uncertain due to debates over Lebanon’s inclusion, was disrupted by Israeli strikes, leading Iran to accuse Israel of violating the terms and threatening retaliation. Without a clear commitment to a temporary pause, the effectiveness of peace talks remains questionable.
