{"id":35271,"date":"2026-04-16T00:49:56","date_gmt":"2026-04-15T21:49:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/?p=35271"},"modified":"2026-04-16T00:49:58","modified_gmt":"2026-04-15T21:49:58","slug":"us-president-trump-claims-china-will-not-arm-iran-vows-to-permanently-open-strait-of-hormuz","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/us-president-trump-claims-china-will-not-arm-iran-vows-to-permanently-open-strait-of-hormuz\/","title":{"rendered":"US President Trump claims China will not arm Iran, vows to \u2018permanently\u2019 open Strait of Hormuz"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><em>6 minute read<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>U.S. President Donald Trump said he is \u201cpermanently opening\u201d 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.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In a post on Truth Social on April 14, 2026, Trump wrote that \u201cChina is very happy (very happy) that I am permanently opening the Strait of Hormuz,\u201d adding, \u201cI am doing this for them and for the entire world.\u201d He also stated that \u201csuch a situation will never occur again\u201d and claimed that China has agreed not to send weapons to Iran.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Trump said he had directly communicated with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the issue. In an interview with Fox Business Network, he stated, \u201cI wrote him a letter asking him not to do that, and he wrote me a letter saying that, essentially, he&#8217;s not doing that.\u201d<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\"><p lang=\"en\" dir=\"ltr\">\u201cChina is very happy that I am permanently opening the Strait of Hormuz. I am doing it for them, also &#8211; And the World. This situation will never happen again. They have agreed not to send weapons to Iran\u2026\u201d &#8211; President Donald J. Trump <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/g2LbmMJS5a\">pic.twitter.com\/g2LbmMJS5a<\/a><\/p>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/WhiteHouse\/status\/2044386660469579904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">April 15, 2026<\/a><\/blockquote> <script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\n\n<p><br>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite Trump\u2019s claims, Chinese officials have publicly denied providing military support to Iran. A spokesperson for China\u2019s foreign ministry described such reports as \u201cpurely fabricated\u201d and said Beijing follows strict export controls and international obligations when it comes to military products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><br><strong>Strait of Hormuz Remains Uncertain<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Trump\u2019s statement about \u201cpermanently opening\u201d the Strait of Hormuz comes amid ongoing disruption in one of the world\u2019s most critical energy corridors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-large is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/US-Trump-White-House.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1016\" height=\"678\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/US-Trump-White-House.jpg?resize=1016%2C678&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"U.S. President Donald Trump holds a press conference in the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S.\" class=\"wp-image-35164\" style=\"width:840px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/US-Trump-White-House.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/US-Trump-White-House.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/US-Trump-White-House.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/US-Trump-White-House.jpg?resize=589%2C392&amp;ssl=1 589w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/US-Trump-White-House.jpg?w=1200&amp;ssl=1 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1016px) 100vw, 1016px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em><sup>U.S. President Donald Trump holds a press conference in the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., on April 6, 2026. (Image Credit: Reuters\/Evan Vucci)<\/sup><\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cTHIS IS WORLD EXTORTION, and Leaders of Countries, especially the United States of America, will never be extorted,\u201d Trump wrote.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI have also instructed our Navy to seek and interdict every vessel in International Waters that has paid a toll to Iran,\u201d the U.S. president added.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><br><strong>China Criticizes US Actions<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Chinese officials have criticized the U.S. approach, particularly the blockade. A foreign ministry spokesperson called the action \u201cdangerous and irresponsible,\u201d warning that it could escalate tensions and undermine the fragile ceasefire.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The spokesperson said increased U.S. military activity in the region risks worsening confrontation and threatening safe navigation through the strait.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Chinese government has not directly responded to Trump\u2019s latest remarks about an alleged agreement on arms transfers to Iran.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Iran-flag-oilfields.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"690\" height=\"370\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Iran-flag-oilfields.jpg?resize=690%2C370&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Iranian flag with oilfields\" class=\"wp-image-34621\" style=\"width:840px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Iran-flag-oilfields.jpg?w=690&amp;ssl=1 690w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Iran-flag-oilfields.jpg?resize=300%2C161&amp;ssl=1 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em><sup>Iranian flag with oilfields. (Image Credit: Dreamstime)<\/sup><\/em><br><br><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p><br><strong>Oil Markets and Strategic Pressure<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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\u2019s own ability to export oil.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><br><strong>Upcoming US-China Engagement<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Trump linked recent developments to his upcoming visit to China, expressing confidence in his relationship with Xi.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIn a few weeks, when I visit there, President Xi Jinping will embrace me greatly,\u201d he said. \u201cWe are cooperating wisely and very well. Doesn\u2019t that beat fighting?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At the same time, Trump maintained a firm stance on U.S. military capability, adding, \u201cBut remember, if necessary, we fight very well, better than anyone.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-large is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/US-Trump-China-Xi-meeting-1.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1016\" height=\"678\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/US-Trump-China-Xi-meeting-1.jpg?resize=1016%2C678&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping\" class=\"wp-image-32416\" style=\"width:840px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/US-Trump-China-Xi-meeting-1.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/US-Trump-China-Xi-meeting-1.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/US-Trump-China-Xi-meeting-1.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/US-Trump-China-Xi-meeting-1.jpg?resize=589%2C392&amp;ssl=1 589w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/US-Trump-China-Xi-meeting-1.jpg?w=1200&amp;ssl=1 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1016px) 100vw, 1016px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em><sup>U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping meeting on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, in Busan, South Korea, on October 30, 2025. (Image Credit: X\/@WhiteHouse)<\/sup><\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>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. \u201cHe&#8217;s somebody who needs oil. We don&#8217;t,\u201d Trump said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><br><strong>Prospects for Iran Deal<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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. \u201cIt\u2019s very possible. They have been hit quite hard,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite Trump\u2019s statements, key details about U.S. policy remain unclear. The White House has not provided further clarification on what \u201cpermanently opening\u201d the Strait of Hormuz entails, especially as military operations in the region continue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/US-Iran-Strait-of-Hormuz.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"690\" height=\"370\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/US-Iran-Strait-of-Hormuz.jpg?resize=690%2C370&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"The Strait of Hormuz in the background with U.S. President Trump, Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, and the U.S. and Iranian flags\" class=\"wp-image-35069\" style=\"width:840px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/US-Iran-Strait-of-Hormuz.jpg?w=690&amp;ssl=1 690w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/US-Iran-Strait-of-Hormuz.jpg?resize=300%2C161&amp;ssl=1 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em><sup>The Strait of Hormuz in the background with U.S. President Trump, Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, and the U.S. and Iranian flags. (Image Credit: NASA\/GDFC\/Reuters\/Evelyn Hockstein\/Tasnim News Agency\/Wikimedia Commons\/via IRIA)<\/sup><\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>U.S. President Donald Trump said he is \u201cpermanently opening\u201d 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.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":35275,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[124,44,1,125],"tags":[45,75,152,30,356,21,49,71,113,702,7,128],"class_list":["post-35271","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-asia-pacific","category-middle-east","category-news","category-united-states","tag-china","tag-conflict","tag-energy","tag-iran","tag-middle-east","tag-oil","tag-peace","tag-politics","tag-security","tag-trump","tag-u-s","tag-war"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/US-Trump-China-Xi-meeting.jpg?fit=690%2C370&ssl=1","jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/p7jJWb-9aT","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/35271","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=35271"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/35271\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":35279,"href":"https:\/\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/35271\/revisions\/35279"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/35275"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=35271"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=35271"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ir-ia.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=35271"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}