President Donald Trump said on late Friday (April 17, 2026) that he planned to maintain a U.S. blockade of Iranian ports if a peace deal with Tehran is not reached, adding that he may not extend the ceasefire after its expiration.
Iran declares Strait of Hormuz open after Lebanon truce; Trump says blockade to continue
Iran reopened the Strait of Hormuz on Friday in the wake of a ceasefire deal between Israel and Lebanon, though Tehran threatened to close the vital waterway once again if the U.S. blockade continues.
A ceasefire between Tehran and Washington is due to expire on Wednesday (April 22, 2026).
"Maybe I won't extend it, but the blockade is going to remain," Mr. Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One, when asked if the ceasefire will be extended.
