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U.S. President Donald Trump said he is “permanently opening” the Strait of Hormuz and claimed that China is pleased with the move, as tensions over Iran and global oil routes continue to shape international diplomacy ahead of a planned U.S.-China summit next month.

In a post on Truth Social on April 14, 2026, Trump wrote that “China is very happy (very happy) that I am permanently opening the Strait of Hormuz,” adding, “I am doing this for them and for the entire world.” He also stated that “such a situation will never occur again” and claimed that China has agreed not to send weapons to Iran.

Trump said he had directly communicated with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the issue. In an interview with Fox Business Network, he stated, “I wrote him a letter asking him not to do that, and he wrote me a letter saying that, essentially, he’s not doing that.”

“China is very happy that I am permanently opening the Strait of Hormuz. I am doing it for them, also – And the World. This situation will never happen again. They have agreed not to send weapons to Iran…” – President Donald J. Trump pic.twitter.com/g2LbmMJS5a

— The White House (@WhiteHouse) April 15, 2026

The U.S. president did not specify when the exchange took place, but emphasized that he expects cooperation with Beijing to continue. He also warned that countries supplying weapons to Iran could face economic consequences, including tariffs.

Despite Trump’s claims, Chinese officials have publicly denied providing military support to Iran. A spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry described such reports as “purely fabricated” and said Beijing follows strict export controls and international obligations when it comes to military products.

Strait of Hormuz Remains Uncertain

Trump’s statement about “permanently opening” the Strait of Hormuz comes amid ongoing disruption in one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.

The waterway, which carries a significant share of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments, has seen reduced traffic following weeks of conflict involving Iran.

Although a temporary ceasefire is in place, shipping activity remains far below normal levels. Before the conflict, more than 130 vessels passed through the strait daily. Current traffic is only a fraction of that level, reflecting continued uncertainty and security concerns.

The United States has also implemented a naval blockade targeting Iranian maritime activity. Trump said the move is aimed at preventing what he described as unlawful tolls imposed by Iran on passing ships.

“THIS IS WORLD EXTORTION, and Leaders of Countries, especially the United States of America, will never be extorted,” Trump wrote.

“I have also instructed our Navy to seek and interdict every vessel in International Waters that has paid a toll to Iran,” the U.S. president added.

China Criticizes US Actions

Chinese officials have criticized the U.S. approach, particularly the blockade. A foreign ministry spokesperson called the action “dangerous and irresponsible,” warning that it could escalate tensions and undermine the fragile ceasefire.

The spokesperson said increased U.S. military activity in the region risks worsening confrontation and threatening safe navigation through the strait.

The Chinese government has not directly responded to Trump’s latest remarks about an alleged agreement on arms transfers to Iran.

Oil Markets and Strategic Pressure

The situation in the Strait of Hormuz has had a major impact on global energy markets. Disruptions to shipping have slowed Gulf exports and contributed to rising oil prices.

Analysts say Iran has benefited financially from the increase in prices, despite the ongoing conflict. Some observers suggest that the U.S. blockade may be intended to counter that advantage by restricting Iran’s own ability to export oil.

The strait remains a strategic chokepoint, with around one-fifth of global energy shipments typically passing through it. Any prolonged disruption could have wide-ranging economic consequences.

Upcoming US-China Engagement

Trump linked recent developments to his upcoming visit to China, expressing confidence in his relationship with Xi.

“In a few weeks, when I visit there, President Xi Jinping will embrace me greatly,” he said. “We are cooperating wisely and very well. Doesn’t that beat fighting?”

At the same time, Trump maintained a firm stance on U.S. military capability, adding, “But remember, if necessary, we fight very well, better than anyone.”

He also downplayed concerns that tensions in the Middle East would affect his discussions with China, noting that the two countries have different energy needs. “He’s somebody who needs oil. We don’t,” Trump said.

Prospects for Iran Deal

In a separate interview with Sky News, Trump said there is a strong possibility of reaching an agreement with Iran by the end of April. “It’s very possible. They have been hit quite hard,” he said.

Talks between the United States and Iran have faced setbacks in recent days, with negotiations ending without agreement over the weekend. However, Trump indicated that discussions could resume soon.

A potential deal could coincide with a planned U.S. visit by King Charles III later this month, although no formal timeline has been confirmed.

Despite Trump’s statements, key details about U.S. policy remain unclear. The White House has not provided further clarification on what “permanently opening” the Strait of Hormuz entails, especially as military operations in the region continue.

With conflicting narratives from Washington and Beijing, and continued instability in the Gulf, the situation remains fluid. Developments in the coming weeks, including diplomatic engagements with China and possible renewed talks with Iran, are likely to play a critical role in shaping the next phase of the crisis.