Washington is maintaining a blockade of Iran's ports in a bid to pressure Iran to make a deal to end the war that the US and Israel launched on February 28. Trump, on April 8, declared a ceasefire with Iran that he has since extended, even though negotiations with Tehran have been at a standstill.

The US president says many countries are concerned about the trade ships stranded in the strait

Vessels have been largely unable to pass through the Strait of Hormuz for months, disrupting key supply chains.